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Dodgers NLDS notes: Blake Snell, Freddie Freeman, Didier Fuentes

The Dodgers’ NLDS against the Braves entered a pivotal off-day after a tied series, with key players and pitching struggles defining the early going. Blake Snell’s Game 2 performance raised concerns, as he managed just 11 outs over 90 pitches while struggling with command of his fastball, slider, and changeup—despite allowing only one run.

Manager Dave Roberts attributed the issues to rust rather than lingering groin discomfort, noting Snell’s delivery lacked consistency. Meanwhile, the Dodgers’ offense shifted gears from Game 1’s five home runs to a more balanced approach, with Freddie Freeman and Mac Muncy each delivering solo shots in the loss.

Freeman emphasized the need to diversify their scoring methods, calling for more small-ball execution against Atlanta’s relentless bullpen usage, which kept Dodgers hitters off-balance by cycling through fresh arms frequently. Didier Fuentes stood out for the Braves, retiring 11 straight batters before Muncy’s ninth-inning homer, showcasing a dominant fastball that reached 99–100 mph and stifled the Dodgers’ lineup.

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