MLB Playoff Bracket, Dodgers Edition: Cubs, Brewers or Diamondbacks?

Possible Dodgers NLDS Opponent: Arizona Diamondbacks

And finally we have the division-rival Diamondbacks, who were one of the most exciting teams this year before their second-half slip. Still, they're in the picture, they have the talent, and they have six upcoming cupcake games against the Yankees and White Sox as they try to stave off the Cubs, Marlins (one game back) and Reds (1.5 games back).

Arizona has long been irrelevant in terms of the playoff picture and the Dodgers typically handle business against them, but in 2023 they have an infusion of hungry youth and one of the best managers in the game. Zac Gallen is going to be a Cy Young finalist. Corbin Carroll is your NL Rookie of the Year.

Outside of that, though? Not a whole lot. Their best hitters are Christian Walker, Ketel Marte and Lourdes Gurriel Jr. Behind Gallen is Merrill Kelly, Ryne Nelson and Brandon Pfaadt. It would be pretty surprising if this team got past the Wild Card round, An NLCS trip almost feels impossible due to the lack of experience and overall underwhelming collection of playoff-caliber talent.

They have a bottom-10 pitching staff and a middle-of-the-road offense when looking at the accumulation of season-long stats. Their burst onto the scene this year, with so many up-and-coming young players, has been impressive, but they shouldn't be a feared opponent for LA, who won eight of the 13 regular-season matchups.

Honestly, Dodgers fans might rather the D-Backs remaining in the Wild Card over the Marlins, Reds or Giants (who are three games back). Arizona appears to have run out of steam and should be quick work if they make it past the first round.