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The Los Angeles Dodgers are back in action as they face the Chicago Cubs in an exciting two-game series at Wrigley Field. As the regular season wraps up, this matchup holds significant weight for both teams. What can fans expect from this thrilling showdown?
The Dodgers, coming off a high-scoring series, will once again go up against left-handed pitching, which has been a challenge for them this season. The team has struggled against southpaws, posting a disappointing .202 batting average with an 87 wRC+ against left-handed pitchers. This inconsistency has been a major concern, especially with their lineup's bottom order struggling to produce. With the current statistics showing the 7-9 hitters collectively batting .176/.256/.289, the pressure is on the standout players to deliver.
In their first game against the Cubs, the Dodgers are set to face Matthew Boyd, a lefty who they previously encountered just over a week ago. In that matchup, they managed to score three runs against him, which unfortunately equates to 60% of all earned runs he has given up in his last four starts. It's clear that the Dodgers must capitalize on opportunities early in the game to improve their odds of success.
Game Details:
| Teams | Stadium | Start Time (PT) | TV Coverage | Radio |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dodgers at Cubs | Wrigley Field, Chicago | 4 p.m. | SportsNet LA, MLB Network | AM 570 (English), KTNQ 1020 AM (Spanish) |
On the other side, the Cubs have been performing admirably, led by standout players like Kyle Tucker and Seiya Suzuki. In a surprising turn of events, the Cubs will not have to face Roki Sasaki, who recently showcased his abilities in a game against the Padres. Instead, they will rely heavily on Imanaga, who has been effective, holding a 2.22 ERA and displaying strong performances on the mound. It will be interesting to see if the Cubs can maintain their momentum against a talented Dodgers lineup.
Furthermore, the Dodgers will need their star players, including Shohei Ohtani and Mookie Betts, to step up. Their recent performance against the Cubs included a thrilling but ultimately disappointing 11-10 loss, with both superstars ending the day hitless. If Los Angeles aims to go deep into the postseason, consistent performances from these key players are essential.
Friday’s game will also be a notable rematch as Ohtani returns to the lineup after a brief leave. The energy in Wrigley Field is sure to be electric as these two heavyweights of the National League clash once more, emphasizing the stakes for this series.
The Dodgers will also be looking to bounce back from defensive lapses that have hindered their recent performances. Poor fielding contributed to earlier scoring opportunities for the Cubs, which the Dodgers can’t afford to allow again if they hope to secure victories in these crucial matches.
As the pennant race heats up, Dodger fans can expect an intense and competitive atmosphere at Wrigley Field. This series against the Cubs not only represents the final regular-season contest between these two teams but is also a pivotal moment for both clubs as they contend for favorable playoff positioning. Keep your eyes peeled for a thrilling showdown filled with exciting baseball moments!
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