The Los Angeles Dodgers, known for their high spending in pursuit of the World Series, finally achieved a significant milestone by clinching their 25th National League pennant after defeating the New York Mets. Despite facing challenges in recent seasons, the team, now led by superstar Shohei Ohtani, aims to capture the championship.
Following the victory, the Dodgers celebrated with exuberance in the clubhouse. Infielder Max Muncy expressed optimism about their future games, stating, “We hope we can do it again. We need to get four more wins.” Their next challenge is the New York Yankees in the World Series, which kicks off on Friday at Dodger Stadium. This best-of-seven series features two of baseball’s most iconic teams, bringing forth a storied rivalry.
Los Angeles outfielder Teoscar Hernández acknowledged the significance of the matchup for both fans and players, remarking, “It’s not going to be easy but we have the team, we have the help, and we’re going to go for that World Series trophy.” Historically, the Yankees have an edge over the Dodgers in World Series encounters, having won eight out of eleven meetings, with earlier clashes taking place when the Dodgers were still based in Brooklyn.
Manager Dave Roberts commented on the anticipation surrounding this matchup, noting, “I think the whole world was looking forward or hoping for this potential matchup.” Additionally, they’ve garnered support from Japan, where fans are eagerly watching playoff games to see stars like Ohtani and pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto. The Dodgers signed Ohtani to a landmark $700 million deal over ten years and offered Yamamoto a $325 million, 12-year contract.
Ohtani’s impressive season included the historic achievement of hitting 50 home runs while stealing 50 bases, making him the first player in MLB history to do so. The Dodgers faced adversity with a series of injuries that hurt their pitching staff, placing 36 players on injured lists and missing more than 2,300 player-days — more than any other team.
Despite these setbacks, the addition of key players during the July trade deadline helped them secure the best record in baseball at 98-64, granting them home-field advantage in the playoffs. “This is a team that stayed together. Everybody contributed,” said Hernández, highlighting the camaraderie and the crucial role of the pitching staff in their success.
The Dodgers managed to rally in the NL Division Series against the rival San Diego Padres after initially trailing. They won the final two games to advance, showcasing their tenacity, as Roberts remarked, “They proved to themselves how tough they are.” Currently, the Dodgers find themselves relying on a limited rotation and have implemented several bullpen games this postseason, a strategy that paid off in their clinching game against the Mets.
Injuries have plagued their roster, with the acquisition of Tyler Glasnow falling through due to an elbow injury, and veteran pitcher Clayton Kershaw sidelined by a toe issue after returning from earlier elbow surgery. Other pitchers like Dustin May have not taken the field this season, while Tony Gonsolin continues his rehabilitation from Tommy John surgery. Walker Buehler has faced difficulties as he adjusts in his first season back.
Despite roster challenges, the team pressed on, with Kershaw, the longest-tenured player, expressing appreciation for the team’s achievements regardless of his contributions due to injury. The Dodgers’ strategic acquisitions in July, including pitcher Jack Flaherty and utility player Tommy Edman, proved instrumental. Edman notably clinched NLCS MVP honors after delivering 11 RBIs against the Mets, with a standout Game 6 performance that included four RBIs.
“I just think that I’ve got to bet on players that I feel are capable, put them in the best position to have success and be willing to live with whatever consequence,” Roberts said, emphasizing his managerial approach. He acknowledged the clarity he’s experienced this postseason and credited his players for making the strategies shine.