What's Happening?
The Los Angeles Dodgers are set to face Pittsburgh Pirates ace Paul Skenes in a crucial matchup as they attempt to avoid a three-game sweep. Skenes, who is in his second season in the majors, is making a strong case for his first Cy Young Award with a 2.05 ERA this season. He has a career ERA of 2.01, the best by any pitcher in the live-ball era through his first 51 career starts. Skenes has been effective against the Dodgers, boasting a 2-1 record with a 3.63 ERA in three career starts against them. The Pirates, under manager Don Kelly, have been cautious with Skenes' innings, aiming to keep him under 200 for the season. Meanwhile, Dodgers pitcher Blake Snell will try to help his team recover from recent struggles, having lost four of their last five games. Snell, who recently returned from the paternity list, is looking to regain his form after a drop in fastball velocity in his last outing.
Why It's Important?
This matchup is significant for both teams as the Dodgers are trying to maintain their position in the National League playoff race. Falling behind the Philadelphia Phillies for the second NL first-round playoff bye, the Dodgers need a win to stay competitive. For the Pirates, a sweep against the reigning World Series champions would be a morale booster and a testament to their progress under new management. Skenes' performance is crucial as he aims to solidify his Cy Young candidacy, which would be a notable achievement for the young pitcher. The outcome of this game could influence playoff standings and individual accolades, impacting team strategies and player morale.
What's Next?
The Dodgers will need to address their recent performance issues, particularly in their pitching and batting strategies, to avoid further losses. If catcher Will Smith is unable to play due to his hand injury, Dalton Rushing may take on a more significant role behind the plate. The Pirates will continue to manage Skenes' innings carefully, ensuring he remains effective throughout the season. Both teams will likely reassess their strategies based on the outcome of this game, with the Dodgers focusing on regaining their competitive edge and the Pirates aiming to build on their successes.
