Baseball enthusiasts, get ready for a rollercoaster ride – the NLDS is ramping up, and today's games are packed with high-stakes drama, unexpected twists, and compelling narratives that could redefine these series. But here's where it gets controversial: is a day off really a blessing or a curse for teams hungry for momentum? Let's dive into the key storylines for each matchup, breaking down what to watch and why it matters, even for newcomers to the game.
First off, that unexpected break on Sunday in both NLDS series – even though it wasn't a travel day – might have left fans feeling a tad disappointed. I know I was itching for four games to keep the excitement rolling. On the flip side, though, it means we've got these thrilling contests today to make up for it. Throughout this postseason, I'll be breaking down the upcoming action day by day, spotlighting the main narrative for each team in every game. So, without further ado, here's the scoop on what to keep an eye on for Monday's matchups.
Starting with NLDS Game 2: Dodgers facing off against the Phillies (Dodgers lead 1-0)
Scheduled for 6:08 p.m. ET on TBS
Starting Pitchers: Blake Snell for the Dodgers versus Jesús Luzardo for the Phillies
For the Dodgers: Will Will Smith step up in Game 2?
You might have done a double-take when Smith emerged from the bench to catch the final five innings in Game 1 – I sure did. The Dodgers had clearly been banking on giving him a breather during the Wild Card Series to get him back in fighting shape, but pre-NLDS chatter suggested he might not be fully recovered yet. Yet, there he was, handling those innings and even stepping to the plate three times. With an extra day off before Game 2, rumors swirled that Smith could reclaim his starting catcher role. But when the Dodgers unveiled their lineup on Monday afternoon, the three-time All-Star was nowhere to be seen (Ben Rortvedt took the spot behind the plate).
Now, for beginners, let's clarify: the only real drawback of having a superstar like Shohei Ohtani on your roster – and trust me, it's a minor gripe in an otherwise dream scenario – is that he doesn't play defense, so he's locked in as the designated hitter (DH). This means versatile hitters like Smith, who can swing the bat but might not be up for catching a full nine innings, can't simply DH and stay in the lineup. That's particularly crucial here, as the Dodgers are up against a left-handed pitcher in Luzardo. Still, Smith's absence from the starting nine doesn't mean he's out of the picture. Keep an eye out for him to deliver a clutch pinch-hit or key at-bat from the bench during Game 2, potentially swinging the momentum.
For the Phillies: Can they crack Snell's dominance, and will it suffice?
Going into Game 1, Ohtani had been stingy on the mound, allowing just one run over his last 19 and two-thirds innings – an impressive feat, especially for someone who's also crushing home runs. But the Phillies flipped the script, plating three runs in the second inning amid the electric atmosphere of Citizens Bank Park. It was the ideal outcome for Philly, yet their 5-3 defeat stung even more because their revamped bullpen dredged up painful postseason memories from years past.
And this is the part most people miss: now they're squaring off against Snell, who's been equally untouchable, surrendering only three runs in his previous 26 innings. As the Dodgers' ace who's going deep into games, combined with the extra rest day, he could spare LA from dipping into their less reliable relievers. (There's even a chance the Phillies might only see Snell and the hot-handed righty Roki Sasaki in this one.) To complicate matters, Philly's lineup leans heavily left-handed, and they're missing Harrison Bader, whose on-base plus slugging percentage (OPS – a stat that combines hitting for average and power, for those new to baseball) is a whopping 70 points better against lefties. (He's sidelined for Game 2 due to a groin issue.) Even if they manage to grab a lead, can they really count on their bullpen to protect it at this stage?
Moving on to NLDS Game 2: Cubs versus Brewers (Brewers lead 1-0)
Set for 9:08 p.m. ET on TBS
Starting Pitchers: Shota Imanaga for the Cubs against Aaron Ashby for the Brewers
For the Brewers: Is Chourio ready to roll (at least for the moment)?
It's understandable if you were puzzled by Chourio's status after he was yanked following a 3-for-3 performance in Game 1. Chourio himself played it cool: 'Compared to the last time this happened, I feel like I'm in a very good position,' he shared through interpreter Daniel de Mondesert. But manager Pat Murphy sounded more alarmed: 'Obviously, it's real scary. Could be devastating.' The silver lining for Milwaukee? Chourio proved right – for now, at least. He's back in the Game 2 lineup, leading off and patrolling left field.
This 21-year-old phenom boasts immense talent, though like many young players, he can be inconsistent. Before his August injury, he posted a perfect 1.000 OPS for an entire month – that's elite-level production combining hits, walks, and power. He was channeling that version in October until this latest setback. While there's worry he might aggravate the injury, Chourio brings the kind of high-potential spark that elevates this Brewers squad, which otherwise lacks that ceiling.
For the Cubs: Can they turn the extra day off into a strategic edge?
It seemed like the NLDS kicked off before the Cubs were fully prepared, right? The grueling Wild Card showdown with the Padres left them scrambling for a Game 1 starter, forcing them to go with Matthew Boyd on short rest – a move that backfired spectacularly. Manager Craig Counsell might not have had an easy choice, but the bonus day between games means no more rushing. Everyone can start fresh, especially Imanaga, who won't need an opener this time. It also gives Kyle Tucker more time to recover, and the whole team a chance to recharge.
The Brewers boast the league's top record, but they've been under .500 since August 31 – they're a team that thrives on hot streaks, almost like a vibes-driven squad. When they're on a roll, as after Game 1, they feel unstoppable. But that momentum could be disrupted by the break. Milwaukee crushed it in Game 1, yet a loss tonight would even the series and hand the Cubs the upper hand. And here's where it gets controversial: do these off-days help underdogs catch up, or do they just give favorites time to overthink?
What do you think, fans? Is resting key players like Smith a smart gamble for the Dodgers, or does it risk leaving runs on the table? Should the Phillies trust their bullpen more, or is Snell's dominance a sign of inevitable defeat? And for the Brewers, is pushing Chourio worth the risk, or should they play it safe? Share your takes in the comments – agree, disagree, or offer your own hot takes. Let's keep the conversation going!
