Dodgers Aim for NLCS Spot as Muncy Returns to Starting Lineup

LOS ANGELES — The Los Angeles Dodgers are back in town, ready to secure a place in the National League Championship Series after taking the first two games of the NL Division Series against the Philadelphia Phillies. The decisive Game 3 will take place Wednesday night at Dodger Stadium.

Despite the Dodgers’ success in the first two games at Citizens Bank Park, Max Muncy played a limited role. In the Wild Card series against the Cincinnati Reds, he managed just one hit in two games. He did not start either of the first two games against the Phillies, as Los Angeles faced left-handed pitchers Cristopher Sánchez and Jesús Luzardo.

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts spoke positively about Muncy’s attitude regarding his playing time. “I’ve had conversations with Max every day and he’s completely on board,” Roberts said. With right-hander Aaron Nola on the mound for the Phillies, Muncy is expected to return to the lineup at third base.

The Dodgers’ bullpen experienced drama in Game 2 when Blake Treinen was tasked with closing, despite his recent struggles. After Treinen failed to record an out and allowed two runs, Roki Sasaki came in and earned his second save of the postseason. Roberts praised Sasaki’s performance, saying, “What Roki has done has been very encouraging.”

Meanwhile, Phillies manager Rob Thomson opted to start Nola over Ranger Suarez, despite Nola’s rough season stats. “I have trust in both of them,” Thomson said, emphasizing Nola’s experience in high-stakes games. Nola has a career postseason record of 5-4 with a 4.02 ERA.

The Dodgers’ Game 3 starter will be Yoshinobu Yamamoto, who posted a 12-8 record and a 2.49 ERA this season. Yamamoto has been a consistent performer for the team, enhancing their chances of securing the NLCS spot.

As the night approaches, both teams are poised for an electrifying Game 3, with the Dodgers one win away from advancing to the next round.