Dodgers: The Keys to Success Against the Chicago Cubs

Willson Contreras

Perhaps one of the most outwardly emotional players on the team, Contreras came up huge late in the series against Washington. His pick-off alone at first base will probably play on highlight tapes all the way up until the end of October. And last October he came up big against the Dodgers with four hits in 14 at-bats, including a clutch home run off of Kershaw. This year, the team really needs to be careful with him.

On the season, Contreras hit .276 with 21 home runs. He rates as an above average defender and has picked off quite a few base runners over his first two years in the big leagues.

Versus the Dodgers’ current pitching staff, Contreras is a lifetime .360 hitter. Shutting him down early is key for Los Angeles, especially with the emotion and energy he shows throughout games. If they can defeat him, there is a good chance the Cubs have trouble getting their offense going.