Divisional Showdown Begins as Slumping Dodgers Host Rockies
The Los Angeles Dodgers (79-64) are set to open a crucial three-game series against the Colorado Rockies (40-103) on Monday, September 8, at Dodger Stadium. While a matchup against the team with the worst record in MLB would typically be a routine affair, the Dodgers enter the contest under significant pressure. A recent five-game losing streak has shrunk their once-comfortable lead in the NL West to a single game over the San Diego Padres, making this series vital for stabilizing their position as the postseason approaches.
The Dodgers have dominated the season series, winning eight of the ten games played against the Rockies so far. However, their recent 3-7 stretch has created an urgent need to capitalize on this favorable matchup and regain momentum. The game is scheduled for a 10:10 p.m. ET first pitch.
Pitching Matchup Riddled with Uncertainty
The pitching matchup for Monday’s game presents a stark contrast in certainty. The Rockies will send right-hander Chase Dollander to the mound. The 23-year-old has endured a difficult season, posting a 2-12 record with a 6.77 ERA. In 20 starts, Dollander has surrendered 18 home runs, a statistic the potent Dodgers offense will look to exploit.
For the Dodgers, the situation is far less clear. While some probable pitcher lists have Tyler Glasnow slated to start, his status remains in question following a recent back issue. This uncertainty has led to speculation that Los Angeles may opt for a “bullpen game” to begin the series.
The Tyler Glasnow Question
Glasnow was unexpectedly scratched from his scheduled start on Friday due to back tightness. According to manager Dave Roberts, an examination of the issue “nothing came of it,” as reported by digitaltrendstoday.com. The 32-year-old right-hander threw on both Saturday and Sunday, but the team is waiting to see how he feels before making a final decision.
“My expectation is it’ll be this next series when we get home. I’m just not sure if it’s tomorrow or Tuesday or what,” Roberts stated. Given Glasnow’s extensive injury history and the team’s position as a heavy playoff favorite, the Dodgers are exercising caution to ensure he is healthy for a potential October run. If Glasnow is not ready, the team could move up scheduled starters Emmet Sheehan or Blake Snell, or rely on their bullpen, which holds a 4.10 team ERA.
Key Players to Watch
Despite their recent struggles, the Dodgers’ offense remains one of the most formidable in baseball. They will look to get back on track against Dollander and a Rockies pitching staff that owns the league’s worst team ERA.
- Shohei Ohtani (LAD): The superstar designated hitter leads the Dodgers with an impressive 48 home runs and 90 RBIs.
- Freddie Freeman (LAD): The first baseman provides consistent production, leading the team with a .295 batting average.
- Hunter Goodman (COL): The Rockies catcher has been a bright spot in a tough season, leading his team in home runs (29), RBIs (86), and batting average (.284).
High Stakes for Los Angeles
This series is a prime opportunity for the Dodgers to halt their slide and create separation in the NL West. Facing a struggling Rockies team at home provides the perfect recipe for a much-needed turnaround. A failure to secure a series win could put their division title in serious jeopardy as the final weeks of the regular season unfold. The Dodgers are acutely aware of the stakes and will be focused on re-establishing their dominance starting Monday night.
