This LA Dodgers player will be biggest x-factor in 2024 MLB postseason

Without a doubt, the LA Dodgers are one of the favorites yet again to be a contender in the MLB postseason.

Entering late August, the Dodgers hold a slimmer-than-expected lead in the NL West, but are well up on a postseason spot. Considering their performance to date, it's time to consider who this team could turn to once the playoffs arrive.

Pitching is crucial in October. It's almost imperative for a team to have a guy who rises up and pitches above his usual ability to spark their team in the postseason.

The Dodgers have been mauled by pitching injuries in 2024. Whether it's Tyler Glasnow, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, or Blake Treinen, this club cannot seem to catch a break on the mound.

Pitchers who were expected to do well have also fallen short in Los Angeles this season, whether it be Walker Buehler or Bobby Miller. Even Brent Honeywell was outrighted to Triple-A after a brief flash of greatness.

The pressure is on for Gavin Stone and Jack Flaherty to be the leaders of the staff, but who will be the guy to put them over the edge?

The Dodgers need Michael Kopech to be that guy. Plain and simple, Kopech must be the reliable reliever LA has long sought, and he already appears ready to take on that role.

Following his arrival after being traded from the White Sox, Kopech didn't allow a run across his first nine appearances.

In his first 9 1/3 innings with Los Angeles, he's handed out just one hit, one walk and struck out 13 batters (0.214 WHIP).

The Dodgers have even moved him into a closing role recently. His last two outings came in save situations, and he recorded the save each time in one-run games against the Cardinals, touching 103 MPH.

Kopech has not allowed a run since July 7, which spans 14 consecutive appearances. Overall in 2024, he has 11 saves and five holds with 72 strikeouts in 53 innings.

You can't expect him to maintain this perfect streak, but Kopech is only cementing trust among the Dodger faithful with each passing appearance.

He has a 3-8 record and 3.91 overall ERA, but don't let the early numbers fool you. Michael Kopech is feeding off the postseason-esque energy in Hollywood, and he is primed to contribute for a ball club desperate for dominant and healthy pitching.