Four Keys to a Dodgers NLCS Series Victory

Four Keys to Victory for the Dodgers in the 2025 NLCS

Somebody Wake Up Sho

It feels like on most days, Shohei Ohtani does everything well. He is one of the aces in the starting rotation. Ohtani went six full innings in his first career postseason start, allowing three runs in six full innings, striking out nine against the Philadelphia Phillies’ explosive lineup. He hits for power and average, and can steal a base or two. However, in the Division Series, Ohtani struggled mightily. He went 1-for-19 with nine strikeouts. More specifically, Ohtani was 1-for-16 against left-handers.

Manager Dave Roberts was uncharacteristically blunt when he said, “We are not going to win the World Series with that sort of performance.” The Dodgers’ 50/50 man must do better with the bat.  If he gets hot, he can carry the team. It also lengthens an already potent lineup and takes the pressure off the pitching staff. Admittedly, Shohei isn’t the only one whose bat is cold. Los Angeles has only scored three runs in the last two games. It would help if Ohtani were a little more than a threat at the plate.

Limit the Extra Outs

The Brewers are a very good team, as their record reflects. They have speed and an aggressive style of play, which capitalizes on other people’s mistakes. The Dodgers need to play solid defense or Milwaukee will take advantage, as they can turn one run into a three-run rally. The Dodgers can ill afford dropped fly balls, booted grounders, or errant throws. Defense wins championships, and the Dodgers need to focus on that when they are out in the field.

More Than Roki

The Dodgers’ bullpen has been shaky in recent high-leverage situations. However, rookie Roki Sasaki has been nothing short of a revelation in his new closer role. In the 2025 postseason thus far, Sasaki has made five appearances with two saves. He has yet to allow a run in 5 1/3 innings, all while striking out five. But the Dodgers are going to need more than one pitcher to be high-leverage in the upcoming series. They would most likely need at least four arms on which they can depend, especially in a seven-game series. To that end, right-handed reliever Ben Casparius has been added to the roster. Casparius induced some pivotal outs in the 2024 postseason. The Dodgers hope that history repeats itself.

Control the Leadoff Man

Jackson Chourio sets the tone for the Brewers. He is a five-tool player with a .414 career batting average in the postseason, along with three home runs and nine runs batted in dating back to last October. If the Dodgers can limit the damage inflicted by the young superstar, it would go a long way to dulling the Brewers’ attack.

If the Dodgers want a chance at back-to-back titles, they must bring their A-game in the NLCS because the Brewers are a worthy opponent.