NLDS notes: Josue De Paula, Shohei Ohtani, Freddie Freeman
While eight teams battle it out to see who will advance to the Division Series, the Dodgers are among four teams using this time off to prepare for October baseball. After winning an even 100 games in the regular season, the Dodgers secured a first-round bye and will await the winner of the NL Wild […]
The Los Angeles Dodgers are among eight teams competing for a spot in the Division Series, taking a break after securing an even 100 regular season wins. The Dodgers have received first-round bye, awaiting the winner of the NL Wild Card game between the Atlanta Braves and Philadelphia Phillies.
21-year-old outfielder Josue De Paula showed his potential while stepping in for the injured Shohei Ohtani, hitting .323/.500/.581 in 42 plate appearances. Nevertheless, De Paula, due to his lack of big-league experience in the outfield, is expected to play only pinch-hit opportunities. Hyeseong Kim, a utility man, could also impact the postseason roster.
Shohei Ohtani has been using the time to refine his swing ahead of the NLDS. The team's general manager, Brandon Gomes, stated that Ohtani's swing felt great and that he is in a good place physically.
Freddie Freeman hit only one home run in the second half of the regular season, struggling with patellar tendonitis in his right knee. However, Freeman feels better now and is confident he can get his swing right in the next five days before the first pre-NLDS workout on Saturday.
Written by urgent.news from Yahoo Sports's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
