Padres-Dodgers preview: Three things that will decide the NLDS

The Dodgers and Padres have developed one of baseball's most heated rivalries. San Diego is trying to become a contender in 2020. Los Angeles is the National League West champion.

The Padres haven't won a season series against the Dodgers since 2010. This year's Dodgers team is the best in MLB history, having won 111 games. The Friars are without their top three starting pitchers, but they did manage to beat the Mets in the wild-card round. San Diego hasn't hit against left-handers well this season, and it's likely they'll miss Fernando Tatis Jr. more this time. Juan Soto is a career-worst hitter against right-handed pitchers. They are the second-ranked team against them among the eight remaining playoff teams.

Blake Snell is expected to start for San Diego in the NLCS against the Dodgers. He was pulled from a start against Los Angeles in 2020 World Series. Snel has only earned a win against LA once in 11 career starts. SanDiego needs to take advantage of Snal's time on the mound. The team needs him to pitch well and leave with a lead. The game starts on Sunday. If the Padres win, they will advance to the next round. They need to win three games in three days. Los Diego has a 113 wRC+ against left-handed pitchers. LA has 122 wrc+ vs right-handers.

The Dodgers are going to play the Padres in the NLDS. There are many unknowns regarding the Dodgers' bullpen. It's unknown who will be called upon if Los Angeles holds a lead in a game. Craig Kimbrel is not likely to be used in this situation. The Dodgers have a 2.87 ERA this season.