NLDS Series Preview: Dodgers vs. Padres

The Los Angeles Dodgers are the overwhelming favorites in the National League Division Series against the San Diego Padres. The last time the Dodgers won the series in three games. The Padres ended their season with a victory over the Mets in their Wild Card Series.

The Dodgers and the Padres have excellent starting rotations. San Diego burned their top three starters during the NLWCS against the Mets. Mike Clevinger will start in Game 1 of the five-game set against LA. The Dodgers have Julio Urías and Clayton Kershaw, who will be rested and ready to start the first two games of their NLDS. Tyler Anderson and Tony Gonsolin will pitch games 3 and 4.

The Dodgers have the best bullpen in the National League. The Padres have a few good relievers, but Josh Hader is the key to their success. If he can dominate the Dodgers lineup, the two bullpens will be more evenly matched than they look on paper.   The Dodgers won the NLDS. San Diego won against the Mets. They will play the Padres in a best-of-five series.

The Dodgers have a fearsome lineup from top to bottom. The Padres power is concentrated around the middle of the order. Juan Soto hasn't been himself since the trade to San Diego. Josh Bell has gone cold. If the Padres don't improve their offensive performance, they won't be able to win the series.

The Dodgers went 14-5 against the Padres this season. They have a home field advantage and they are the better team.