Dodgers Finalize Postseason Roster Amidst Injury Concerns and Surprise Candidates

As the regular season winds down, the Los Angeles Dodgers have largely determined their postseason standing, clinching the National League West title and appearing set for a first-round bye. However, the composition of their playoff roster remains a subject of discussion, with injuries and fluctuating performances leading to an unusually high turnover of players throughout the season. The team has utilized 53 different players, and many questions persist regarding the final construction of their lineup and pitching staff as they pursue a third consecutive World Series.

Lineup Certainties

The core of the Dodgers' everyday lineup appears to be set, assuming Shohei Ohtani is healthy enough to resume designated hitter duties. Teoscar Hernández and Kyle Tucker have solidified their places with strong late-season performances. Andy Pages is expected back from a fractured hand, and Freddie Freeman, despite a lingering knee issue, has managed it effectively. Tommy Edman, though in a recent slump, is not in immediate danger of losing playing time. On the bench, Hunter Feduccia is the primary backup catcher and a potential left-handed pinch-hitting option. Kiké Hernández and Miguel Rojas provide valuable defensive versatility and postseason experience.

Lineup Decisions and Potential Surprises

The Dodgers will likely have one or two position player spots to fill, depending on whether they opt for a 13-pitcher/13-hitter or a 12/14 split. A key decision involves rookie Josue De Paula, who has made a strong case with impressive plate discipline and power in limited MLB action. If he makes the roster, he could serve as a left-handed bench bat or insurance at DH if Ohtani faces limitations. His competition includes Alex Call, a right-handed bat who might be redundant, and Dalton Rushing, a left-handed option sidelined by an elbow injury. If the Dodgers choose to carry an extra position player, other candidates include Hyeseong Kim, valued for his speed and infield defense, and Alex Freeland, who could offer more offensive upside.

Pitching Staff Locks

The starting rotation is expected to feature Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Tarik Skubal, Blake Snell, and Tyler Glasnow, provided Snell recovers from his groin injury without further setbacks. The back end of the bullpen seems solidified with Tanner Scott and Roki Sasaki as primary closer candidates, supported by high-leverage arms Alex Vesia and Evan Phillips. The order of the starting rotation, particularly the decision on using Tyler Glasnow at home due to potential travel-related issues, remains a consideration.

Pitching Staff Uncertainties

Several pitchers are vying for the remaining spots on the pitching staff, with health being a primary concern. Edgardo Henriquez is expected to be on the roster and in a high-leverage role if he recovers from a back strain. Will Klein and Eric Lauer might also be available but lack clearly defined roles. The competition for other spots includes Brock Stewart and Edwin Díaz, who is looking to salvage a difficult debut season, and Blake Treinen, whose recent usage has been limited. For a left-handed relief option, Kris Bubic, a trade deadline acquisition, has impressed, while Jack Dreyer has struggled in recent outings. Emmet Sheehan, who has shown significant improvement in recent starts, and Justin Wrobleski, who has adjusted to a bullpen role, are candidates for multi-inning duties. The final bullpen composition may depend on the opponent, and the team is still determining the hierarchy among its relief pitchers.