What's Happening?
The Los Angeles Dodgers are set to begin a crucial series against the Los Angeles Angels as they aim to maintain their narrow lead in the National League West. The Dodgers' lead has shrunk to just two games over the San Diego Padres, making this week's games pivotal. The Dodgers will play three games against the Angels in Anaheim, followed by a three-game series against the Padres. Despite the Angels' recent struggles, having lost four of their last five games, they previously swept the Dodgers in a series at Dodger Stadium. The Dodgers' recent performance has been inconsistent, with a 5-5 record over their last ten games, including a recent loss to the Toronto Blue Jays. The Dodgers' pitching lineup for the series opener includes Yoshinobu Yamamoto, who will face Angels' Jose Soriano.
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Why It's Important?
This series is significant for the Dodgers as they seek to solidify their position at the top of the National League West. A strong performance against the Angels and Padres could provide the Dodgers with a more comfortable lead in the division. Conversely, any slip-ups could allow the Padres to overtake them, intensifying the race for the division title. The outcome of these games could also impact the Dodgers' momentum as they approach the postseason. For the Angels, the series offers a chance to disrupt the Dodgers' plans and potentially improve their standing in the American League wild-card race.
What's Next?
Following the series against the Angels, the Dodgers will return home to face the Padres, a team that has been performing well recently. The Dodgers will need to address their issues with runners in scoring position, as highlighted by their recent struggles against the Blue Jays. The Angels, meanwhile, will look to refine their pitching strategy, with input from Hall of Famer Pedro Martinez, to better compete against the Dodgers.
