What a difference a year makes.

The Dodgers won a championship in 2024 with a starting rotation pieced together by string, chewing gum, and a paper clip, relying on a deep bullpen to fill in the enormous gaps. This year the roles are flipped, in extreme fashion, with the starters providing the steadiest foundation.

“If you look at the construction of our roster currently, the strength is starting pitching. And when you can have your most talented pitchers get the most outs, then you’re in a good spot,” manager Dave Roberts told reporters in Milwaukee after Game 2’s win over the Brewers. “Right now, all four of those guys are in a really good head space. Physically they’re sound. And you feel good about those guys starting a game and pushing them. And they’re prepared for this.”

Blake Sn

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