Photo via Yahoo Sports

Tarik Skubal starts for Dodgers in NLCS Game 1, Yoshinobu Yamamoto in Game 2

The Los Angeles Dodgers have set their rotation for the National League Championship Series with a strategic approach, beginning with Tarik Skubal on the mound for Game 1. Skubal, who has excelled in postseason play with a 1.97 ERA across seven starts, will look to build on his six-inning performance from the NLDS win over the Atlanta Braves, where he struck out seven batters.

His consistency in lasting at least six innings in every postseason start adds to the Dodgers' depth as they aim to advance further in the playoffs.

Yoshinobu Yamamoto will take the ball in Game 2, marking the fourth time he’ll start a Game 1 or 2 in the postseason, including his legendary relief appearance in Game 7 of last year’s World Series. Yamamoto’s ability to dominate on the road—winning five straight postseason starts while allowing no more than one run—positions him as a key factor in Milwaukee.

With five days of rest before Game 2, Yamamoto’s inclusion also sets up a potential Game 6 start on similar rest, giving the Dodgers flexibility in their rotation strategy as they face the Brewers in a best-of-seven series.

Up nextMLB· 1d ago

Skubal-Miz dream showdown lined up for NLCS Game 1