Dodgers Target Reds Sweep in NL Wild Card; Ohtani Eyes Game 3 Start

As the National League Wild Card Series continues, the Los Angeles Dodgers are on the verge of clinching a spot in the Division Series. Following a victory over the Cincinnati Reds in Game 1, the Dodgers hold a 1-0 lead in the series and will look to extend this advantage in Game 2 at Chavez Ravine.

Game 2 Preview: Dodgers vs. Reds

Game 2 is scheduled for Wednesday night, starting at 6:08 p.m. PT. Shohei Ohtani, a two-way superstar for the Dodgers, is anticipated to make a significant impact. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts announced that Ohtani “probably” will start in a potential decisive Game 3 or pitch in the opening game of the Division Series if the Dodgers advance.

Pitching Matchup

In the upcoming matchup, the Dodgers will feature Yoshinobu Yamamoto, who has a record of 12-8 with a 2.49 ERA and 201 strikeouts. For the Reds, Zack Littell will take the mound with a record of 10-8 and a 3.81 ERA. Both teams hope their starters can set the tone in this crucial playoff game.

Key Player Insights

• Freddie Freeman has been performing well, batting .314 with three home runs and seven RBIs in his last ten games.
• Ohtani leads the Dodgers this season with an impressive 89 extra base hits, including 55 home runs.
• Elly De La Cruz tops the Reds with 22 home runs this season.

Team Performance

The Dodgers boast an overall record of 93-69, including a strong home game performance of 52-29. They rank third in team batting average in the National League at .253. Meanwhile, the Reds have an overall record of 83-79, with a road performance of only 38-43.

Injury Reports

The Dodgers have several players on the injured list, including:

• Nick Frasso (60-Day IL – undisclosed)
• Kirby Yates (15-Day IL – hamstring)
• Michael Kopech (15-Day IL – knee)

The Reds also face injury challenges with key players such as Rhett Lowder and Ian Gibaut on the 60-Day IL. These absences may impact their playoff performance significantly.

Last Ten Games

The continued success of both teams in their last ten games highlights their readiness for postseason competition. As they prepare for Game 2, the stakes are high, setting the stage for an exciting matchup in the wild-card series.