Dodgers, NL West Looking to Strong Finish in a Close Division Race

LA Dodgers 64-57 1 GB NL West; 2.5 GB Wild Card

Recently the Dodgers have had unfortunate mishaps in their way to success this year. With Kenley Jansen out for some time, the bullpen issues continue. Losing grip to a slim lead, the Dodgers find themselves stuck in neutral in the NL West. If LA has closed out many games that they blew leads late, they would be in first place now; according to Jon Tayler of Sports Illustrated.

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Dodgers have the least amount of games remaining, with 20 games at home and 21 away. 12 games visiting Dback’s, Rockies, and Cardinals. Following with only half of their games at home against those same teams, all fighting for playoff position. Fortunately, their road is the easiest with the least toughest schedule.

They play the least amount of games and fewest against playoff and wild card teams. The big question is if they can stay healthy. Jansen needs to be healthy and in top shape when the Dodgers need him, yet long-term health is always a priority.

Manager Dave Roberts and staff have plans to fine tune their closing pitchers at the moment, announcing starters Kenta Maeda and Ross Stripling to the bullpen. Hoping this should hold off leads and close games. This would give the Dodgers a well-balanced team all around, from start to finish.

Finding an answer to the bullpen woes will put the LA Dodgers in a very comfortable position to finish off the season strong. Perhaps leading the NL West yet again, or at least finding themselves in a good place to make a wildcard comeback.