The Dodgers lead the National League in wins and have a nearly 95% chance of winning their division, as per Fangraphs’ models. Additionally, Las Vegas bookmakers view them as strong favorites to defend their title in the World Series.
However, following a mixed first half of the season that didn’t quite meet their lofty expectations, the team begins the second half on Friday facing numerous challenges and uncertainties.
Manager Dave Roberts acknowledged the good start but emphasized the need for improvement. As the second half unfolds, several critical questions surround the team’s effort to enhance their performance.
Will the Pitching Staff Maintain Health?
The ongoing concern for the Dodgers remains the health of their pitching staff, particularly as they navigate familiar injury woes with a revamped roster.
In an ideal scenario, the Dodgers would feature pitchers like Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Blake Snell, and Tyler Glasnow in their rotation. However, recent history shows that expecting perfect pitching conditions is often unrealistic.
What’s Next for Shohei Ohtani?
After a successful three-inning return to pitching, Ohtani seems on track for full-length appearances. However, it’s uncertain how quickly he might be fully integrated into the rotation.
Despite a stellar showing on the mound, his batting performance has waned, prompting the Dodgers to approach his workload cautiously. As they look forward to October, questions linger over how long Ohtani will contribute and in what capacity.
Can Freeman and Betts Overcome Slumps?
While the team has Ohtani and potential reinforcements, they require major contributions from Freddie Freeman and Mookie Betts, both of whom are currently in slumps. Freeman’s steep decline in batting average, along with Betts’ struggles despite strong defensive performance, places additional pressure on the team’s offensive capabilities.
Assessing the Rest of the Lineup
The Dodgers face further uncertainties regarding their lineup. While Will Smith has been a consistent performer, questions arise about whether he can maintain this level of production.
Meanwhile, players like Andy Pages and Teoscar Hernández have exhibited inconsistencies that could impact the team’s overall success. With the returns of key players like Tommy Edman and Max Muncy still in flux, how these elements play out could be crucial for the Dodgers moving forward.
