Dodgers: 3 Factors That Could Make or Break 2018 Season

Rookie Contributions

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Like the last two seasons, the Dodgers need solid contributions from their rookies. This year, it looks like Walker Buehler and Alex Verdugo will enjoy most of the limelight. Buehler is instrumental if the Dodger aren’t able to land Yu Darvish or Jake Arrieta (which is very likely). As a power right-handed starter, he’ll be able to balance out a rotation that only has Kenta Maeda as a righty.

Alex Verdugo’s contribution would be great but is not necessary. He has a long list of veterans ahead of him for the left field spot, and if all of them fail then the Dodgers are in trouble anyway. Still, it’ll be helpful to know what he can do at the Major League level going forward.

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There are plenty of other things that can make or break the Dodgers 2018 season. Justin Turner remaining healthy and productive, Yasiel Puig building on his successful 2017 campaign, and even if a healthy Matt Kemp can contribute (if he stays). However, if the factors mentioned above are overcome by the players the Dodgers will enjoy 2018.