4 takeaways from the Dodgers' up-and-down first week of the 2023 season

The 2023 MLB season just got underway last Thursday, but though it's early on in the season, trends are already revealing themselves, and themes from last year are re-emerging to start the season. While it might be too early in the campaign to look at divisional standings or the playoff picture, it is never too soon to take a look at how well individual players are doing. In the case of the Dodgers, there are many surprises and standouts early in the season, from familiar faces to new acquisitions.

The Dodgers have the best run differential in the NL, thanks to some explosive offensive performances. Those offensive performances have propelled the Dodgers to a division-leading 4-2 start to the season. However, offensive production is not the only factor that has given the Dodgers early-season success. The most consistent production from the roster has come, somewhat surprisingly, from the pitching staff. From Mookie Betts to James Outman, and from Clayton Kershaw to Shelby Miller, let's talk about some key takeaways from the first two series of the Dodgers' 2023 campaign against the Rockies and Diamondbacks.