Commentary: Here’s what’s at stake for the Dodgers over the final two weeks

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The Dodgers face the Philadelphia Phillies in a crucial series starting Monday, trailing by 4.5 games for a playoff bye that may hurt more than help.

The Dodgers have struggled in recent division series despite earning byes, raising questions about whether playing the wild-card round might be preferable.

SAN FRANCISCO — This is the time to bring on the rivals. The Dodgers are used to taking on challengers down the pennant stretch: the San Francisco Giants and San Diego Padres — and, in a previous version of the National League West, the Atlanta Braves and Cincinnati Reds.

The final two weeks of the regular season are upon us. The Dodgers have one remaining head-to-head matchup