Arizona Diamondbacks: Who has the edge at each position in the NLDS?
ARI: 2.5 WAA
LAD: 0.7 WAA
The Dodgers may have superstar closer Kenley Jansen, but the D-backs have super reliever Archie Bradley.
The D-backs have the better relief core by wins above average. Despite struggling in September, Arizona’s bullpen ranked in the top five in reliever ERA all season.
Andrew Chafin and Jorge De La Rosa pitched great in the Wild Card game. The biggest question mark for the Snakes is Frenando Rodney. Dodger Stadium was the site for his famous blowup in July, but he got the job done when the D-backs swept in Los Angeles during the team’s franchise record setting 13-game win streak.
The biggest question mark for the Dodgers is Pedro Baez. Despite having an ERA under three for the season, the right-hander complied a 10.38 ERA in September and has a 5.63 ERA against the Diamondbacks this season. He has also struggled in past postseason apperances.
Edge: Diamondbacks
Bottom Line
The Diamondbacks have the better starting staff and relief core on paper. As the old saying goes, pitching and defense wins. The Dodgers may have a better offense, but the D-backs lineup is not to shabby when clicking on all cylinders. Plus, I think J.D. and Goldy will do plenty of damage.
Series Prediction: D-backs in four (3-1)
Game 1: Dodgers
Game 2: D-backs
Game 3: D-backs
Game 4: D-backs
"Arizona Diamondbacks: NLDS Preview Podcast with LA Sports Hub"
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