The Los Angeles Dodgers went into the 2018 season not only heavy favorites to win a sixth consecutive National League West title but also return to the World Series. But injuries and subpar performances across the roster led to a 16-26 start, matching the worst in franchise history.
In some regard that set the tone for the season. The Dodgers lost key contributors to the disabled list and endured stretches of inconsistent play. However, they nonetheless hit their stride at the right moments to climb back into the postseason picture.
Their win on Saturday clinched a spot in the postseason for a sixth consecutive year, extending a franchise record. While it’s been tough sledding at times for his club, manager Dave Roberts firmly believes in the Dodgers, per Andy McCullough of the L.A. Times:
“I think we’re the best team,” Roberts said. “And I’ve said it. Most importantly, we have to go out there and play like it. We can be as dangerous as anyone. But it’s up to us to go out there and play like it. One part of that equation is to get into the postseason, and get an invite. We have that.”
Roberts voiced confidence in the Dodgers at multiple points this season, and asserted they would again be crowned NL West champions once the dust settled. They appeared poised to secure a division title last week but lost multiple games as the Colorado Rockies ripped off a winning streak.
However, back-to-back wins and the Rockies’ falling to the Washington Nationals on Saturday has created a scenario where the NL West remains up for grabs. If the same outcomes occur on Sunday, the Dodgers would find themselves division champions once more.
