Dodgers’ Magic Number Drops Following Padres’ Loss

LOS ANGELES, CA — The Los Angeles Dodgers are one step closer to clinching the National League West title after the San Diego Padres lost to the New York Mets, 8-3, on Thursday. With the Padres’ defeat, the Dodgers’ magic number has decreased to seven games.

The Dodgers can lower the magic number to six with a victory over the San Francisco Giants later today. However, if they lose, the number will remain unchanged at seven. The Dodgers currently lead the NL West by 2.5 games.

Dodgers starting pitcher Blake Snell recently delivered an impressive performance, tossing seven scoreless innings with 12 strikeouts against the Philadelphia Phillies on Wednesday night. His strong outing contributed to the Dodgers’ win after they faced the risk of being swept in the series.

Despite their recent success, concerns remain about the Dodgers’ bullpen as they approach postseason play. The bullpen has struggled this season, currently posting a collective ERA of 4.29, one of the lowest in the league. Manager Dave Roberts emphasized that regaining confidence is crucial for the struggling relievers.

“Before the results, has to be confidence,” Roberts said. “It’s just kind of trying to reset a mentality, a mindset and expect that things happen.” He added that the relievers need to focus on executing pitches rather than aiming for perfection in scoreless innings.

If the Dodgers can improve their bullpen before the playoffs, they will significantly increase their chances of success. Last season, strong performances from relievers were pivotal in securing victories during the postseason for Los Angeles.

The team now faces the Giants in a critical series as they strive to finalize their postseason positioning. With just a week left in the regular season, every game counts for the Dodgers.