Dodgers Facing Key Injuries in Critical Game 4 Against Padres

As the Los Angeles Dodgers gear up for Game 4 of the National League Division Series against the San Diego Padres, they face the significant challenge of contending without key players. Shortstop Miguel Rojas is sidelined due to a torn adductor muscle, an injury that flared during Game 3, forcing him to exit in the third inning. Meanwhile, Freddie Freeman, initially slated to play, was later scratched from the lineup due to a lingering sprained ankle.

The Dodgers found themselves in a precarious position in Game 3, which they lost 6-5 to the Padres, leaving them just one game away from elimination. Rojas’s key play during the game, failing to execute a routine flip to second baseman Gavin Lux for a necessary out, resulted in a missed double play opportunity. This misstep highlighted the struggle of the Dodgers, who have been grappling with injuries and form issues throughout the series.

“Given that it’s an elimination game, I’m sure he’s going to want to be in there,” said Dodgers manager Dave Roberts, referring to Rojas’s desire to contribute despite his injury. “But we’ve got to evaluate at what cost, as far as how effective he can be, whether it be defensively with the range or at the plate.” On Wednesday, Roberts confirmed that Rojas is “banged up” and unlikely to participate in Game 4.

Freeman, who has recorded three singles in 11 postseason at-bats, demonstrated visible discomfort during Game 3. An eighth-inning single, which broke a 0-for-16 team hitting slump, saw Freeman hobble to first base before being substituted for a pinch-runner. Although initially included in Game 4’s lineup, his ongoing struggle with mobility saw him ultimately removed from the starting roster.

Tommy Edman will now assume the shortstop position on Wednesday, with Max Muncy shifting to first base. Additionally, Kiké Hernández, originally placed in center field, will start at third base, while Chris Taylor takes over center field duties, batting ninth in the lineup.

Padres manager Mike Shildt added to pre-game tensions with comments aimed at Dave Roberts, while Dodgers player Max Muncy criticized the Padres’ style of play. These off-field dynamics underscore the competitive intensity of the series that is about to unfold once again with Ryan Brasier as the starting pitcher for the Dodgers.