Los Angeles Dodgers vs
Atlanta BravesPredictions & Preview

Los Angeles Dodgers Face Vulnerability as Atlanta Braves Gain Momentum in Playoff Race

As the MLB season nears the playoffs, the Los Angeles Dodgers maintain their lead in the NL West with a diminishing 4.5 game lead over the Arizona Diamondbacks. Shohei Ohtani's historic pursuit of 50 home runs and 50 stolen bases continues while the Dodgers face a stretch of vulnerability. The Atlanta Braves are battling for a Wild Card spot, trailing the New York Mets by just one game. In the upcoming game, Jack Flaherty will pitch for the Dodgers while Chris Sale will take the mound for the Braves, with Atlanta being the current betting favorite.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Dodgers +106 | Braves -120
• Spread: Dodgers +1.5 (-205) | Braves -1.5 (+172)
• Total: Over/Under 7.5 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that Atlanta will win straight-up is 55%.

Los Angeles vs Atlanta Stats

Los Angeles Dodgers

The Los Angeles Dodgers have had a season marked by brilliance and inconsistency, with a record of 87-60 by mid-September. Shohei Ohtani's pursuit of a 50/50 season has been a standout moment, showcasing both his individual talent and the offensive strength of the team. However, challenges such as injuries to key players like Gavin Lux and Clayton Kershaw, as well as underperformance from pitchers like Walker Buehler and Bobby Miller, have raised concerns among fans and analysts about the team's ability to maintain their dominance. Despite this, the Dodgers hold a power ranking of 13, ranking 3rd in offense (scoring an average of 5.00 runs per game) and 11th in defense (allowing an average of 4.23 runs per game).

Atlanta Braves Analysis

Whit Merrifield's determination to make an impact in the late-season race led him to return to the Atlanta Braves lineup just a week after fracturing a bone in his foot. The 35-year-old veteran expressed the importance of being part of a playoff race, acknowledging that time is running out for him. Despite being eliminated from National League East contention, the Braves remain in the hunt for the NL Wild Card spot, with Gio Urshela and Jorge Soler contributing to the team's success. Rookie pitcher Spencer Schwellenbach has been a breakout star, delivering stellar performances against top teams in the league. The return of players like Merrifield has added stability to a lineup that has been shaken by injuries, with Ozzie Albies also expected to return before the end of the regular season. The Braves currently have a power ranking of 7 and are ranked #18 for offense but hold the top spot for defense. They have an overall record of 80-67 and recently won 2 out of 3 matchups against the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Los Angeles Dodgers in Tight Competition for Top NL Record, Favored as Underdogs against Atlanta Braves

The Los Angeles Dodgers are currently engaged in a close competition for the top record in the National League, a pivotal factor that could determine home-field advantage in the playoffs. This added incentive may drive the team to excel, particularly in matchups against contenders like the Atlanta Braves who are vying for a Wild Card position. While not a foolproof measure, there is a prevailing notion within betting circles that the Dodgers, with their lofty standards, can offer attractive value as underdogs or at even odds. The Dodgers' defensive prowess and pitching depth, highlighted by standout pitcher Flaherty and their ability to convert potential hits into outs, have been instrumental to their success. In tight contests where every run is crucial, this capability could prove to be a deciding factor. Therefore, wagering on the Dodgers at +110 may be viewed as a confident bet on their consistent performance, historical superiority over the Braves, and the overlooked potential for a Dodgers victory based on the odds presented.

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