The Arizona Diamondbacks have been on an incredible postseason run, winning four consecutive October games and taking a commanding 2-0 lead in the best-of-five National League Division Series (NLDS). This has put the Los Angeles Dodgers in a precarious situation, as they now face the possibility of elimination.
The Diamondbacks have been impressive, scoring nine runs in the first inning across two games and limiting Dodgers’ starters Clayton Kershaw and Bobby Miller to just two innings of play. Manager Torey Lovullo expressed the team’s determination, emphasizing their competitive focus, even when facing days off. The Diamondbacks are motivated and hungry to prove themselves.
Rookie standout Corbin Carroll has been stellar, going 3-for-7 in the series with a home run and three walks, leading to a remarkable .600 on-base percentage in 10 plate appearances. Tommy Pham is 6-for-10 with a home run, and Lourdes Gurriel Jr. has contributed with a 3-for-9 performance, including a double and a home run.
On the pitching front, the Diamondbacks have excelled, with starters Merrill Kelly and Zac Gallen combining to give up only two runs in 11 2/3 innings. In Game 2, the bullpen, featuring Ryan Thompson, Kevin Ginkel, and Paul Sewald, kept the Dodgers scoreless over the final 3 1/3 innings.
The team is heading into Game 3 with confidence and a fearless attitude, boosted by their strong performance. However, they are determined to remain grounded and maintain their hardworking ethos.
In Game 3, the Diamondbacks will send rookie right-hander Brandon Pfaadt to the mound, while the Dodgers will rely on right-hander Lance Lynn. Lynn had a 13-11 record in the regular season with a 5.73 ERA, but he also led the league with 44 home runs allowed.
The Dodgers have faced injuries among their starting staff throughout the season, including a midseason shoulder injury to Clayton Kershaw. The loss of Julio Urias after his arrest on suspicion of domestic battery has also impacted their pitching situation.
Despite their pitching struggles, the Dodgers’ offense hasn’t been able to compensate, with MVP candidates Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman going just 1-for-13 in the top of the order. The Dodgers are in desperate need of a strong offensive leader.
With their backs against the wall and down 2-0 in the series, the Dodgers must make significant adjustments to avoid a quick exit from the NLDS. Manager Dave Roberts acknowledged the increased pressure, but he hopes the team can turn the tide in their favor in the remaining games.
