2025-07-27 Dodgers at Red Sox Matchup Preview

Starting Pitcher Matchup

Dustin May takes the mound for the Dodgers, aiming to leverage his arsenal against a Red Sox lineup eager to capitalize on home field advantage. May's effectiveness will depend on his ability to command his pitches and keep the Red Sox hitters off balance.

The Red Sox counter with Walker Buehler, a seasoned veteran looking to stifle the Dodgers' potent offense. Buehler's experience and pitch repertoire could be key to navigating a lineup known for its power and discipline at the plate. The matchup between Buehler and the Dodgers' hitters will be a critical factor in determining the game's outcome.

Dodgers Hitting Analysis

The Los Angeles Dodgers enter this contest with a team batting average of .275, reflecting a lineup capable of consistently putting the ball in play. Their on-base percentage stands at .345, demonstrating their patience and ability to draw walks, extending innings and creating scoring opportunities. The Dodgers' slugging percentage, a robust .480, highlights their power potential and ability to generate extra-base hits. The Dodgers have a strikeout percentage of 21.5%, and can create a ton of runs.

The Dodgers' offensive prowess will be put to the test against Walker Buehler. The ability of the Dodgers to maintain their plate discipline and capitalize on mistakes from Buehler will be essential. The Dodgers' effectiveness in clutch situations will be a key determinant of their offensive success. They must focus on driving the ball into the gaps and taking advantage of scoring opportunities when presented.

Red Sox Hitting Analysis

The Boston Red Sox boast a team batting average of .268, indicating a consistent ability to generate base hits. Their on-base percentage of .338 showcases their aptitude for getting on base, setting the table for their power hitters. With a slugging percentage of .470, the Red Sox demonstrate a significant power threat, capable of driving the ball for extra bases. The Red Sox have a strikeout percentage of 20.8%, and their ability to put the ball in play poses a challenge to opposing pitchers.

The Red Sox's approach against Dustin May will be crucial. Their success hinges on their ability to make solid contact and drive the ball into favorable areas. They must aim to exploit any weaknesses in May's delivery or pitch selection. The Red Sox will need to be aggressive on the basepaths, taking calculated risks to advance runners and disrupt the Dodgers' defense. Creating traffic and putting pressure on May will be critical to their offensive output.

Pitching Matchup Breakdown

Dustin May will have to be wary of the Red Sox ability to hit the ball at a .268 rate and their ability to hit for power with a .470 slugging percentage. He will need to be at his best and command all of his pitches to avoid the big innings.

Walker Buehler will have to be able to get the Dodgers to swing and miss as much as possible to get out of innings as the Dodgers have the capability to keep getting on base and put the ball in play with a .275 batting average and a .345 on base percentage. Buehler will need to keep the ball down and get them to hit into ground balls.

Game Prediction

This matchup promises to be a tightly contested affair, with both teams possessing formidable offensive capabilities. The Red Sox, playing at home, may have a slight edge due to their familiarity with the ballpark and the energy from the crowd. However, the Dodgers' potent lineup and pitching staff are more than capable of securing a victory on the road. The game's outcome will likely hinge on which team can capitalize on scoring opportunities and limit mistakes.

The Red Sox will need to attack May early and try to jump out to a lead to get into the Dodgers bullpen. If they get behind early then their chances drop dramatically. The Red Sox will have to hit mistakes and that is easier said than done.

The Dodgers will need to score early and often to keep the Red Sox offense from getting going and getting the home crowd into it. The Dodgers can't let Buehler get into a groove and throw strikes.

The play here is with the home team to take the game.