Los Angeles – As the National League Division Series tip‑off draws near, the Dodgers are keeping their eyes on the prize while refusing to get distracted by the historic weight of a potential three‑peat. Manager Dave Roberts even showed up to batting practice in shorts, a relaxed gesture that mirrors the team’s calm approach.
Historic goal, humble mindset
Since the New York Yankees last pulled off three straight championships from 1998‑2000, no club has repeated that feat. The Dodgers would also be the first National League franchise ever to win three straight World Series titles. Yet third baseman Max Muncy insists the team is not dwelling on that narrative.
“It’s not something we’re really focused on,” Muncy said. “When you talk about three‑peating, you’re putting extra pressure on it that doesn’t need to be there. Winning a World Series is already hard enough as it is.”
Preparing in the bye week
During the week off, the Dodgers have blended recovery with low‑key practice. Players have taken live batting practice, spent time in the cage and participated in simulated games projected on the stadium’s video boards. The only sounds heard were the crack of the bat, occasional hoots from the dugout and outfielders shouting to claim fly balls.
Freddie Freeman used the downtime to fine‑tune his swing mechanics while managing a lingering right‑knee issue. The 37‑year‑old first baseman plans to take about 400 swings in practice, hoping to “kick out the bad habits.” He added, “I truly feel good right now physically and I have no pain in my knee right now.”
Injury updates
Four‑time MVP Shohei Ohtani has been battling a nagging right biceps strain and left‑knee soreness for weeks. The knee kept him from pitching, and a recent arm issue landed him on the injured list for the first time with the Dodgers. He returned for the final five games of the regular season. Manager Roberts noted Ohtani is “feeling great physically” and his swings are “in a great place,” though his exact role in the NLDS remains to be decided.
Reliever Blake Treinen, now 38, will miss the postseason after a recent injury, leaving the bullpen a little thinner than hoped.
Experience as an advantage
The Dodgers field the oldest regular‑season lineup in the majors, anchored by veteran infielder Miguel Rojas (37), Freeman (37) and Muncy (35). Ohtani, at 32, adds a younger spark. Freeman believes that experience will be a decisive factor.
“I think experience is going to be huge. We know what it takes,” he said. “If you think big picture in this moment, you’re going to lose sight of things.”
First game details
The NL Wild Card Series between the Atlanta Braves and Philadelphia Phillies concluded Thursday, with the Braves winning 6‑2. That result sets up a Game 1 matchup in Los Angeles on Saturday, when the forecast calls for a scorching 100 °F (38 °C) day‑time game.
“You’re facing a team that’s already been through the fire and they’ve faced the emotion,” Muncy added, underscoring the Dodgers’ respect for their opponent’s recent battle.
With health, experience and a measured mindset, the Dodgers are poised to give the Braves a tough fight and keep the dream of a historic three‑peat alive.
Original reporting: KSAT Sports (San Antonio) — read the source article.
