MLB Executives Don't Pick Dodgers as NL Team to Beat

The Los Angeles Dodgers built a powerful team, but they aren't the clear frontrunner for winning their third consecutive World Series. While betting markets still consider the Dodgers the favorites for another National League pennant, some MLB executives and scouts have other opinions. An ESPN poll revealed that six executives favored the Milwaukee Brewers as the team to beat in the NL, while five chose the Dodgers, four selected the Philadelphia Phillies, and one named the Chicago Cubs.

One Brewers executive explained why Milwaukee could challenge the Dodgers, even with star pitcher Shohei Ohtani's injury concerns. He pointed out the young players at the Brewers who seem unfazed by high-stakes situations. The team has more pitching, better overall performance, and a five-game lead over the Dodgers in the NL Central standings. They also lead MLB in wins (93) and run differential (+195).

The NL Central leaders have a first-round bye secured and a 2.5-game advantage over the Dodgers for home-field advantage throughout the NL bracket. One scout believes that going through American Family Field, where the Brewers have a .780 team OPS with a 52-26 record, would give them a significant advantage. The offense, especially the power-hitting duo of Jacob Misiorowski and Logan Henderson, could match up well against the Dodgers.

However, not everyone is ready to write off the Dodgers. One executive believes they have been wisely conserving their resources, potentially setting themselves up for a deep postseason run. If they secure a bye, the executive suggested, "They're in great shape." The Dodgers have been careful not to exhaust themselves this season, seemingly aiming for another three-peat from the beginning.