As July draws close, the Los Angeles Dodgers remain a central presence within the Major League Baseball landscape and an ongoing focus in the sports betting community. Shohei Ohtani is navigating the team through a challenging midseason stretch, and much of the attention centers on his unique two-way contributions and the dynamic influence he exerts on this roster. Ohtani’s impact, paired with the Dodgers’ evolving lineups and frequent strategic adjustments, continues to shape conversations about the team’s prospects as the postseason race intensifies with several months ahead.
Entering the final days of July, the Dodgers have held on to their status as presumptive National League and World Series favorites. However, recent weeks have brought their resilience and vulnerabilities into sharper focus. Ohtani’s versatility has been key to maintaining the Dodgers’ position at the top of the standings, and any fluctuation in his performance—or that of his teammates—has ripple effects throughout the MLB futures markets. The team’s trajectory remains under constant scrutiny, with every roster move or standout game potentially shifting expectations as the regular season moves toward its most crucial stretch.
Updated Odds: National League Pennant, World Series, and NRFI Markets
As of July 30, 2025, sportsbooks still list the Dodgers as favorites for the National League pennant and the World Series, though the gap has shrunk in response to increased competition and ongoing health concerns. National League Pennant: The Dodgers’ odds are currently between +135 and +140 across major sportsbooks. Their closest competitors remain the Philadelphia Phillies (+450 to +500) and New York Mets (+500), with the Cubs and Brewers also in the mix (+600 to +650). World Series: The Dodgers’ odds range from +220 to +290 depending on the sportsbook. The Phillies and Tigers trail at +800 to +900, with the Mets (+800 to +1000), Yankees (+1000 to +1200), Blue Jays, Astros, and Cubs all at or above +1100.
Specialized markets—particularly NRFI stats for betting—have grown in attention, especially where Dodgers and Ohtani overlap. His role as a two-way player measurably tilts NRFI lines; sharp bettors and sportsbooks regularly adjust these odds based on Ohtani’s presence, recent efficiency, and pitch velocity. According to recent NRFI (No Runs First Inning) trend data, the Dodgers hold a 49-59 NRFI record, averaging 0.68 runs scored and 0.63 runs allowed in the first inning. These results are notable even if not MLB best, particularly given the pronounced interest in Dodgers NRFI outcomes whenever Ohtani is pitching or batting early.
Dodgers’ July Performance: Results Under Pressure
Throughout most of July, the Dodgers have displayed both fortitude and areas where improvement is needed, responding to adversity in ways that have kept them competitive. The team managed to steady itself after a minor losing streak against formidable opponents like Boston and Minnesota. Los Angeles holds a 63-45 record and maintains a 4-game lead over the San Diego Padres in the National League West. Their capacity to rebound has been notable, particularly on July 28, when Shohei Ohtani crossed the plate for his 100th run of the season—a milestone no other player in MLB has achieved so far this year. Following setbacks, including three series sweeps against them (Houston Astros, and the Milwaukee Brewers – twice), the Dodgers have consistently regrouped, stringing together pivotal wins that have helped them reinforce their division lead.
Pitching, however, stands out as an area under strain, as injuries and accumulated fatigue continue to test the depth of the Dodgers’ rotation. The recent schedule has forced increased reliance on rookies and the bullpen, limiting the number of innings their established starters can contribute. This has pressured the pitching staff to deliver, especially in high-leverage situations. It has underscored the importance of strategic decision-making as the team looks to maintain its momentum during one of the most demanding stretches of the regular season.
Shohei Ohtani: Productivity and the Two-Way Balance
Ohtani’s July performance has further underscored the rare value a two-way player brings. In his three appearances on the mound this month, he has pitched 8.0 innings, allowed just one earned run, and recorded 10 strikeouts, resulting in a monthly ERA of 1.13. Ohtani’s use as a reliever, rather than as a full-time starter, has been a deliberate choice by Dodgers management to keep his bat fresh for the long stretch ahead.
At the plate, Ohtani remains the Dodgers’ offensive anchor. Through July 29, he’s hitting .273 for the month, with several multi-hit games. He leads the team with 38 home runs, 100 runs scored, and 73 RBIs. Notably, Ohtani has become the first Dodger since Max Muncy (2019) to homer in five straight games, tying the franchise record, and underscoring his consistency and power.
Consistency and Influence Beyond the Box Score
Ohtani brings more than statistics to the Dodgers; his demeanor and work ethic have provided a steadying force in the clubhouse. Manager Dave Roberts has pointed to Ohtani’s calm under pressure as helping the team weather midseason slumps and frustrations. Even when Ohtani experienced a brief seven-game slowdown—batting just 3-for-21—he maintained top-tier OPS levels. He delivered pivotal moments, such as his crucial home run and three-inning relief appearance, ending a losing skid against Minnesota.
With Ohtani’s carefully monitored pitching usage, the Dodgers prioritize his offensive output while keeping him available for important late-inning pitching. The club continues to avoid overtaxing their star, mindful of his long-term value heading into August and the following high-stakes games.
Looking Forward: An Unfinished Race
With only hours remaining in July, the Dodgers remain pivotal. While they retain their lead in the National League West and are viewed as the likely favorites for both the pennant and a World Series run, heavy dependence on Ohtani for both pitching and hitting continues to raise questions about sustainability through August and into the postseason. His ongoing health will be watched closely, especially in tight games and early innings, which sharp bettors target with NRFI bets.
However, the weight of the season does not rest solely on Ohtani. The performance and recovery of rotation arms, as well as the depth of the lineup, will be decisive in maintaining the Dodgers’ edge as rivals such as the Phillies, Mets, Cubs, and surging Padres attempt to close the gap. Los Angeles’ postseason prospects remain among the best in baseball, but with each game, the stakes rise and the margin for error narrows.
The Dodgers’ long-term success will ultimately depend on sustained balance: continued excellence from Ohtani, timely contributions from the roster, and management’s ability to adjust rapidly to injuries and fatigue. As August approaches, the Dodgers must blend their star power with tactical flexibility to secure their place atop MLB’s most competitive race.
