Dodgers vs. Mariners: Playoff Tune-Up or Record-Breaking Finale?
The Los Angeles Dodgers and the Seattle Mariners face off in a series that presents different scenarios for each team as the regular season winds down.
Dodgers: Resting Up Before the Postseason
Having clinched the NL West, the Dodgers can approach this series as a chance to rest key players and prepare for their Wild Card series at home. Manager Dave Roberts might use this opportunity to give extra innings to pitchers like Emmet Sheehan and Clayton Kershaw, who may not be in the playoff rotation. Catcher Ben Rordvedt could also see reduced playing time, allowing Daulton Rushing to get more at-bats as he returns from the IL.
Mariners: Eyeing the AL Record Books
For the Mariners, who also clinched their division, this series could be anything but meaningless. Catcher Cal Raleigh, affectionately known as 'The Big Dumper,' is having an MVP-caliber season, with 60 home runs, just two shy of Aaron Judge's AL record. The Mariners may shift Raleigh to designated hitter to keep him fresh while giving him the opportunity to chase that historic milestone. While Seattle has secured a top seed in the American League, securing home-field advantage throughout the AL Playoffs is still a major motivator.
Series Preview
- Friday, September 26: Emmet Sheehan (Dodgers) vs. George Kirby (Mariners)
- Saturday, September 27: Tyler Glasnow (Dodgers) vs. Logan Gilbert (Mariners)
- Sunday, September 28: Clayton Kershaw (Dodgers) vs. Bryce Miller (Mariners)
The series promises an interesting dynamic: a Dodgers team looking to fine-tune for the playoffs against a Mariners squad with potential history on the line.