UPDATE: The Los Angeles Dodgers are set to face the Toronto Blue Jays on October 16, 2025, in Game 3 of the World Series, with former Dodger Max Scherzer taking the mound for Toronto. This matchup highlights the transformation of the Dodgers’ pitching strategy, moving away from past missteps toward a more straightforward approach.
In previous postseasons, the Dodgers grappled with complex pitching tactics that led to disappointment. Back in 2021, Scherzer’s time with the Dodgers ended in an elimination game due to arm issues, a situation that raised eyebrows among fans and analysts alike. Hall of Fame pitcher Pedro Martinez criticized the organization’s handling of its rotation, stating, “Dodgers analytics dept really misused probably the best rotation in all of baseball.”
Fast forward to 2025, and the Dodgers have adopted a winning formula: strong starters in every game. In stark contrast to their earlier postseason strategies, which included unconventional roles for pitchers, the Dodgers now feature a powerful rotation consisting of Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Blake Snell, Tyler Glasnow, and Shohei Ohtani.
Dodgers pitching coach Mark Prior emphasized the simplicity of their current plan. “Clearly, Blake Snell, Yama, Glasnow, Shohei, all really good pitchers,” Prior noted. “I think we can all agree that they’re all really good pitchers, and any team would probably roll them out in a playoff game.”
The Dodgers’ postseason record stands at an impressive 10-2, and they have won every game in which their starting pitcher has secured an out in the sixth inning. This clear correlation underscores the effectiveness of their decision to let pitchers play to their strengths.
As the team prepares for Game 3, the focus shifts to Glasnow, who is expected to deliver a strong performance. The Dodgers are optimistic that if Glasnow can pitch for six or seven innings, they will be well on their way to clinching the championship.
Unlike the past, where high-pressure scenarios led to questionable decisions, the current lineup reflects a commitment to straightforward, effective pitching. This shift not only enhances the team’s performance but also alleviates stress on the players, allowing them to focus on winning.
“We have four starters now that are pitching their best. … We’re just riding those guys,” said catcher Will Smith. His sentiment encapsulates the team’s renewed confidence and strategy.
As the Dodgers gear up for what could be a pivotal game in the World Series, the spotlight remains on their ability to execute this refined pitching strategy. With the ghosts of past failures behind them, the Dodgers are poised to make a significant impact this postseason. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely—can they maintain their winning ways and secure a championship?
