The Los Angeles Dodgers came from behind three times against the Colorado Rockies on Friday night, including in the eighth inning, to keep multiple streaks alive and tie the franchise record for best start to a season through 40 games at 30-10.
The Dodgers enter play Saturday on a six-game winning streak and having won their last 11 at Dodger Stadium. On top of holding the best record in baseball, L.A. additionally boasts the best run differential at +102.
According to ESPN Stats and Info research, the Dodgers are the 10th team since the World Series era began in 1903 with a run differential greater than 100 through 40 games. Of those teams, nine reached the World Series and seven won it.
“I’d be hard-pressed to find a team that is equipped to do what we do,” Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said. “It started with Dustin, I thought he was outstanding. The ‘pen has been good all year and today they just weren’t as sharp.
“For our guys on offense to pick them up, that’s what a team does. Some big offensive nights from some guys, some big hits, defense again was solid. Just a fun game to be a part of.”
The Dodgers, of course, are looking to end a World Series drought that would go on 32 years should they fall short this October. Although the roster is arguably the most talented its been since their stretch of National League West titles began in 2013, an expanded postseason presents a new challenge this year.
“I definitely think it introduces more variance,” Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman said this week. “All things considered, is that a good thing or not? Obviously through my lens I’m only focused on it from a Los Angeles Dodgers perspective and not appreciating or thinking about the bigger picture.
“From my standpoint, I think anything that adds more variance is not an ideal thing for the Los Angeles Dodgers.”
More World Series tea leaves for Dodgers
The Dodgers having connections to World Series history began on Opening Day when Dustin May filled in for an injured Clayton Kershaw. May became the first Dodgers rookie to start a season opener since Fernando Valenzuela in 1981. The Dodgers went on to win the World Series that year.
“I like that. I don’t mind revisiting ’81,” Roberts said when the connection was relayed to him.
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