The Los Angeles Dodgers have made significant changes to their lineup ahead of Game 5 of the World Series as they seek to rebound from a sluggish start. Manager Dave Roberts has shifted Will Smith to the No. 2 spot in the batting order, allowing Mookie Betts to move to third for the first time in four years. The struggling Andy Pages has been replaced by Alex Call at the bottom of the order. These changes aim to enhance the performance of Shohei Ohtani, who is expected to have more opportunities for runs batted in and better protection against opposing pitches.
The Dodgers find themselves tied 2-2 in the series, making this game crucial as they look to secure at least one victory in Toronto to defend their championship title. Roberts emphasized the need for adaptability in the postseason, stating, “In the postseason, you’ve got to be a little more reactive than in the regular season.” He added, “When I netted out the value of what I feel gives us the best chance to win today, that was a decision I made.”
Ohtani’s Potential Role in the Bullpen
With the possibility of needing additional support, Ohtani expressed his willingness to contribute from the bullpen if necessary. After experiencing a tough Game 4, he communicated to Japanese media his readiness to assist in Games 6 or 7. While Roberts has not yet discussed this option with Ohtani, he remains open to the idea, saying, “If he can go, if it makes sense. Certainly, he would be an option.”
Currently, the Dodgers’ offense is facing challenges, with a batting average of just .220 since the wild-card round and averaging only 3.8 runs per game. This is a stark contrast to their regular-season average of 5.1 runs. In situations with runners in scoring position, the team has managed only 6 hits in 29 at-bats, underscoring their struggles.
The Toronto Blue Jays’ pitcher Trey Yesavage poses a particular challenge, especially for left-handed hitters. His performance has limited opposing left-handers to a .479 on-base plus slugging percentage this season. In response, Roberts has adjusted the lineup, placing Freddie Freeman and Max Muncy in the fourth and seventh spots, respectively, to optimize their chances against Yesavage.
Lineup Adjustments to Spark Offense
Smith’s new position behind Ohtani marks a historic moment, as he becomes the first catcher to bat second or higher in a World Series game since Mickey Cochrane in 1935. Betts, who has struggled with a 3-for-19 performance in the series, will be moving back in the lineup to help stabilize the order. Roberts expressed confidence in these strategic shifts, stating, “I feel that that’s the best way to win the game tonight. Both players were alerted and both players are all on board.”
Call, known for his ability to grind out at-bats, will take over in left field, allowing Enrique Hernandez to start in center for only the fourth time this season. Pages, who has faced difficulties with a .215 on-base percentage in the playoffs, has been a significant liability, going 4-for-50 with 11 strikeouts. His batting average during the regular season was a respectable .272, with 27 home runs.
Freeman emphasized the need to adjust their approach against Yesavage, focusing on patience at the plate and working counts effectively. “I think it’s just human nature,” Freeman noted. “Sometimes you want to do a lot. That’s just kind of how it is. I think we’ve got a few games in, we recognize what’s going on, and then we can reel it back in.”
As the Dodgers prepare for this pivotal Game 5, the changes implemented by Roberts may be crucial in revitalizing the team’s offense and keeping their championship hopes alive.
