The Los Angeles Dodgers are gearing up for another season with sky-high expectations, riding the momentum of back-to-back World Series victories. Their offseason was nothing short of impressive, as they secured top-tier free agents to bolster a team already renowned for its dominant pitching staff.
Despite their success, the Dodgers' batting average in the World Series was just .203, the lowest for a champion since 1966. Over the last two seasons, they've maintained a combined .204 average in the Fall Classic, yet managed to clinch the title both times. It's a testament to their strategic prowess and pitching excellence.
As Spring Training kicks off, the Dodgers have a variety of lineup options to consider. However, the upcoming World Baseball Classic will temporarily pull several players away, including superstar Shohei Ohtani. Manager Dave Roberts confirmed that Ohtani will soon depart to represent his country in the tournament.
Roberts noted, “Today was Shohei Ohtani’s last day in camp. He’ll be leaving for the WBC tonight or tomorrow.” This temporary absence will give the Dodgers a chance to explore other lineup configurations during his time away.
Pitching remains a cornerstone of the Dodgers' strategy, even with some hiccups during last season's regular play. On paper, their starting rotation is among the best in baseball, assuming everyone stays healthy. However, Roberts recently addressed concerns about Blake Snell’s readiness for the season opener.
Roberts commented, “Time's ticking, but like I told him the other day, Opening Day is not necessarily a hard and fast target for us." This indicates that while Snell might not be ready for the first pitch of the season, there’s no rush to push him back onto the mound prematurely.
With ample pitching depth and Ohtani expected to return with minimal restrictions, the Dodgers are well-positioned to manage any early-season challenges. They have the luxury of patience, ensuring that Snell can come back fully prepared, without the pressure of immediate performance.