LA set to pitch Snell in Game 1 with Ohtani to follow in NLCS showdown

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LA set to pitch Snell in Game 1 with Ohtani to follow in NLCS showdown

The Los Angeles Dodgers and Milwaukee Brewers are set to face off in Game 1 of the NLCS on Monday night. The Dodgers will start left-handed pitcher Blake Snell, with right-hander Yoshinobu Yamamoto slated for Game 2. Manager Dave Roberts has confirmed that Shohei Ohtani will pitch only once in the series, making his appearance back in Los Angeles.

Dodgers’ Pitching Strategy

Roberts emphasized the advantage of having multiple starters. The Dodgers aim to utilize all four pitchers in the series to ensure rest and effectiveness for their key players. Ohtani will not start before a day off, allowing the team to focus on other starters for potential two-game performances.

Ohtani’s Recent Performance

Ohtani is currently experiencing a slump, hitting just .148 in October, with a 4.50 ERA across six postseason innings. However, Roberts clarified that the decision regarding Ohtani’s starting schedule is unrelated to his recent performance at the plate.

Brewers’ Game Plan

Brewers manager Pat Murphy plans to use an opener in Game 1 before transitioning to a longer-inning pitcher. Jose Quintana and Quinn Priester are among the candidates considered for “bulk” innings. Freddy Peralta is confirmed for Game 2.

Potential Lineup Changes

  • The Brewers are considering the possibility of rookie Jacob Misiorowski either starting or playing a significant bullpen role in Game 3.
  • The Dodgers might carry only two catchers for the series, as Will Smith’s hand injury appears manageable. He successfully caught Games 3 and 4 in the NLDS without issue.

Team rosters are expected to be finalized by Monday morning as both teams make final decisions on their strategies for the crucial series.