The Los Angeles Dodgers have achieved their first goal for the 2024 season by securing a spot in the postseason. They accomplished this with an impressive 20-4 victory over the Miami Marlins at loanDepot park. Now, their focus shifts to winning their 11th National League West title in 12 seasons and ultimately capturing the World Series championship.
Manager Dave Roberts emphasized the importance of enjoying these moments amidst a challenging season. The Dodgers have faced numerous obstacles, but they remain determined to win it all.
As they prepare for the postseason, one question arises: what will their roster look like? In September, teams played with a 28-man roster, but for each round of the playoffs, it reverts to 26 players with a maximum of 13 pitchers. The final roster will depend on who they face in the first round.
The Dodgers are also aiming to secure a first-round bye and clinch their NL West title. With nine games left in the regular season, they currently hold a four-game lead over the San Diego Padres. A crucial three-game series between these division rivals at Dodger Stadium will play a significant role in determining playoff positioning.
In addition to battling for divisional supremacy, Los Angeles is also competing with the Philadelphia Phillies and Milwaukee Brewers for one of two first-round byes. Currently tied with Philadelphia for the top seed, tiebreakers may come into play as Philadelphia won their season series against LA.
The start date of playoffs depends on how well the Dodgers finish out their regular season. If they secure a first-round bye, they will begin chasing their first World Series championship since 1988 on Saturday, October 5th.
In terms of injured players returning for postseason action, Tyler Glasnow and Gavin Stone are ruled out due to season-ending injuries. However, Clayton Kershaw has an opportunity to make it back from his toe injury and potentially contribute as both regular-season starter and playoff starter if he recovers well.
Catcher Austin Barnes is expected back as well after dealing with a fractured left big toe; he’ll serve as backup catcher during October games.
Looking ahead at potential options for postseason rosters includes Anthony Banda if he can recover from his throwing hand’s hairline fracture; Brent Honeywell has performed admirably out of bullpen recently; Andy Pages could be utilized offensively off bench against left-handed pitchers coming out of opponent’s bullpen.
As far as potential matchups go in round one of playoffs – there are several possibilities depending on final standings – currently projected as No.2 seed overall would set them up against winner between Brewers or Mets (Dodgers went respectively:4-3 – Brewers /4-2 – Mets). If LA moves up to No1 seed then likely matchup would be either Padres or D-backs (Dodgers went respectively:3-7 – Padres /7-6 &n
