The Yankees’ path to the World Series appears clear, especially with their recent dominance over the AL Central. After eliminating the Astros and Orioles, the Yankees find themselves in a favorable position, bolstered by the offensive prowess of stars like Juan Soto and Aaron Judge. This postseason, the team has a golden opportunity to capitalize on the weakened competition and secure a trip to the Fall Classic.
The Dodgers and Phillies are also strong contenders for the NLCS, showcasing their depth and talent. As the postseason unfolds, these teams will face significant challenges, but their capabilities make them formidable opponents.
Four compelling matchups are set for the League Division Series, and FOX Sports MLB experts Deesha Thosar and Rowan Kavner weigh in with their insights and predictions for this exciting round of playoffs.
1. Which team is currently better built for the postseason, the Dodgers or the Padres?
Since the All-Star break, the Padres have showcased their strength with the second-best bullpen ERA in the National League at 3.16. Their pitching staff is finely tuned for a deep postseason run, an essential element for success in October. However, the Dodgers have the unique advantage of Shohei Ohtani, who is poised to make his postseason debut. How Ohtani performs could be pivotal, as he has the ability to dominate both strong pitching and capitalize on mistakes. Ultimately, given the increasing importance of a robust pitching lineup in playoff baseball, the edge might lean towards San Diego.
Kavner: The Padres currently possess a well-rounded roster that rivals any team in baseball for postseason readiness. While the Dodgers have a fearsome offense, the Padres lead the majors in batting average and boast the lowest whiff rate. Their ability to grind through at-bats and capitalize on pitching mistakes, coupled with their recent hot streak, gives them a significant advantage on the mound.
Jack Flaherty, slated to start Game 2 for the Dodgers, has struggled recently with a 6.43 ERA in his last three outings. The pressure on the Dodgers’ bullpen is mounting, and with the Padres making strategic moves at the trade deadline, they may hold the upper hand in this series.
2. Is there an area that you believe the Royals match up favorably with the Yankees or a weakness that they can exploit?
Kavner: In Game 1, the Yankees have the advantage with Gerrit Cole on the mound against Michael Wacha. However, Wacha’s impressive second-half performance, including a 2.79 ERA, suggests he won’t be an easy matchup. The Yankees have struggled against changeups, ranking 22nd in the majors in batting average against this pitch. Notably, Aaron Judge and Jazz Chisholm Jr. have struggled against Wacha, combining for a mere 1-for-21 against him. If the Royals can capitalize on this matchup, they may have a chance to steal a game early.
If Kansas City manages to win Game 1, it could shift the series dynamics significantly. With Cole Ragans and Seth Lugo lined up to follow, the Royals might find themselves with the rotation advantage as the series progresses.
The Royals’ path to victory hinges on their pitching, especially considering their offense has struggled outside of standout Bobby Witt Jr. With the Astros and Orioles out of the picture, the Yankees must capitalize on this opportunity to reach the World Series.
Thosar: The Royals’ best opportunity against the Yankees lies in Game 1, where Michael Wacha’s history against Aaron Judge could be a game-changer. Judge has a dismal .056 batting average over 21 career plate appearances against Wacha, which includes 11 strikeouts. This unique statistic could give Wacha the confidence needed to neutralize one of the Yankees’ most significant threats right from the start.
3. Who would the Phillies have rather seen in the NLDS, the Brewers or the Mets?
Thosar: The Phillies would likely prefer to face the Brewers, especially considering their recent struggles against the Mets. The last time these two teams met at Citi Field, the Mets won three out of four games, which could create unnecessary pressure for the Phillies in the NLDS. The rivalry with the Mets could intensify the stakes, making it a potentially challenging matchup.
While the Brewers are no easy opponent, the Phillies have had more success against them during the regular season, going 4-2 compared to their 7-6 record against the Mets. If the Phillies can manage to neutralize Milwaukee’s strengths, particularly their elite base-running and defense, they could find themselves in a favorable position.
4. What is the Tigers‘ blueprint to upsetting the Guardians?
Thosar: The Tigers thrive when their pitching staff adopts a collaborative and unselfish approach. Their postseason success hinges on ace Tarik Skubal delivering dominant performances. However, beyond Skubal, the team excels when pitchers of varying styles and experience contribute effectively. Manager A.J. Hinch’s decisions are respected, and pitchers are ready to adapt.
Tigers pitchers are known for their flexibility, often employing unconventional strategies like using openers instead of traditional starters. This “pitching chaos” approach can disrupt the Guardians’ offensive rhythm, preventing them from settling into a game plan.
5. Who will win each LDS?
Yankees vs. Royals
– Thosar: Yankees — With stars like Juan Soto and Aaron Judge ready to shine, the Yankees are poised to dominate. Their recent performance against the AL Central teams positions them well for a successful postseason run.
– Kavner: Yankees — The matchup between Aaron Judge and Bobby Witt Jr. promises to be exciting, but the Royals may struggle to keep pace offensively.
Phillies vs. Mets
– Thosar: Mets — The Mets have proven to be resilient, defying expectations as they enter the postseason. Their recent success against the Phillies gives them confidence heading into Citizens Bank Park.
– Kavner: Phillies — The Phillies possess a well-rounded team, with Bryce Harper and Kyle Schwarber leading the charge. If their bullpen performs adequately, they should advance.
Dodgers vs. Padres
– Thosar: Padres — San Diego’s pitching depth and effectiveness make them a strong contender. Despite the Dodgers having Shohei Ohtani, their pitching staff raises concerns.
– Kavner: Padres — While the Dodgers have the talent to win, their current pitching struggles and health issues could give the Padres the advantage in this matchup.
