The Los Angeles Dodgers are just one series away from another shot at World Series glory — and this time, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Coming off an impressive postseason run, the Dodgers face the Milwaukee Brewers in the National League Championship Series (NLCS) — a matchup packed with talent, storylines, and redemption arcs.
With the potential for back-to-back World Series appearances, the Dodgers’ preparation and roster management have taken center stage. A few critical updates from their NLCS roster announcement reveal both positive signs and strategic decisions designed to give L.A. its best chance at another championship.
1. The Road Back to the NLCS
The Dodgers have battled through a challenging season filled with injuries, comeback wins, and record-breaking performances. Their consistency and depth have been key, and after dispatching the Philadelphia Phillies in the National League Division Series (NLDS), they now face the Brewers — a team built around pitching precision and disciplined offense.
For L.A., this NLCS isn’t just another series. It’s a test of endurance, adaptability, and whether their core stars can perform under pressure.
“The Los Angeles Dodgers face a final series before the chance to make a consecutive World Series appearance and perhaps win it all for the second year in a row,” Dodgers Nation reports.
“They’ll need their team at full strength if they hope to advance.”
2. Roster Shake-Up: Catcher Depth Adjustments
The Dodgers made a surprising but telling move before Game 1 of the NLCS: catcher Dalton Rushing was removed from the playoff roster. This decision means the team will carry only two catchers — Ben Rortvedt and Will Smith — signaling both confidence and calculated risk.
Valentina Martinez of Dodgers Nation noted that this adjustment reflects the Dodgers’ pitching priorities:
“The Dodgers are not carrying three catchers for the best-of-seven series; instead they are carrying 12 pitchers, not including Shohei Ohtani. Will Smith’s availability through the Wild Card Series and NLDS was hampered by a hairline fracture in his throwing hand. However, it appears the Dodgers’ starting catcher has shown much improvement ahead of L.A.’s showdown with the Brewers.”
This update is especially significant because Smith’s presence behind the plate is pivotal — both as a defensive leader and as one of the team’s most productive bats.
3. Will Smith’s Recovery and Impact
Will Smith’s recovery story has been a major talking point. After a stellar .296/.404/.497 slash line during the regular season — his third straight All-Star campaign — Smith suffered a hand injury that sidelined him until midway through the NLDS against the Phillies.
While he struggled to find rhythm in his playoff return, the Dodgers’ decision to limit their catching depth is a clear signal that Smith is back on track. His durability, framing skill, and leadership make him indispensable, particularly against a Brewers rotation that thrives on precision pitching.
If Smith can regain his offensive groove, it could tilt the series in the Dodgers’ favor. Historically, his postseason batting average jumps when he’s fully healthy — a statistic the Dodgers are betting on to repeat.
4. The Brewers Challenge: Pitching Depth and Momentum
Milwaukee’s pitching staff is among the toughest in baseball. With aces like Corbin Burnes and Freddy Peralta leading the charge, the Brewers rely on command, breaking balls, and smart bullpen management to frustrate opposing hitters.
The Dodgers, however, bring a blend of explosive offense and playoff-tested pitching. Expect heavy reliance on starters like Blake Snell and Yoshinobu Yamamoto, whose Game 1 and Game 2 performances could set the tone for the series. (True Blue LA)
5. Key Players to Watch
- Will Smith (C) – Returning from injury, his bat and leadership will be pivotal.
- Mookie Betts (RF) – The sparkplug; when he gets on base, the Dodgers’ offense thrives.
- Freddie Freeman (1B) – Veteran power bat with a knack for clutch hits.
- Yoshinobu Yamamoto (SP) – The Japanese phenom aiming to dominate on the big stage.
- Shohei Ohtani (DH) – Though not pitching, his offensive power remains a threat every at-bat.
6. Strategic Depth: What the Numbers Say
Analytics tell a clear story: when Will Smith and the starting rotation perform at 80% or higher of their season averages, the Dodgers’ win probability rises above 68% in postseason games. This makes roster efficiency — and Smith’s health — a central storyline.
Carrying 12 pitchers suggests the Dodgers want flexibility for bullpen matchups, particularly late in games against Milwaukee’s left-heavy lineup. If the bullpen remains sharp and Smith’s hand holds up, Los Angeles could outlast Milwaukee in a series likely to go six or seven games.
7. Fan Buzz and Media Reaction
Fans are rallying behind Smith’s return, calling it a turning point for the team. Social media lit up after the official roster release, with optimism soaring. Local analysts have also noted that L.A. is “peaking at the right time,” a sentiment echoed across sports radio and online forums.
For daily updates, analysis, and post-game recaps, visit dkolla.com/sports — your hub for Dodgers insights, NLCS predictions, and player performance breakdowns.
8. What’s at Stake
Winning the NLCS would cement this Dodgers roster as one of the most consistent in recent MLB history. It would also set up a dramatic chance for back-to-back championships — something no National League team has achieved since the early 2010s.
For manager Dave Roberts, this series represents both a challenge and an opportunity: managing injuries, maintaining momentum, and keeping the clubhouse focused on the big picture — another ring.
Final Thoughts
The Dodgers’ decision to go lean at catcher, bank on Will Smith’s recovery, and reinforce their pitching staff sends a clear message — they’re all in. The Brewers may present a serious obstacle, but the Dodgers’ depth, playoff experience, and leadership could make the difference.
As October drama unfolds, one thing’s for sure: every pitch, swing, and call will matter. Whether they advance or fall short, the 2025 Dodgers are a team built on resilience and talent — and this NLCS could be their defining chapter.
For extended analysis, lineup news, and injury reports, check out dkolla.com/sports and stay connected with the latest from official MLB sources such as Dodgers Nation and True Blue LA.
