2025-09-03 Dodgers at Pirates Matchup Preview

Pitching Matchup Preview

The Los Angeles Dodgers send Shohei Ohtani to the hill against the Pittsburgh Pirates and Braxton Ashcraft in what promises to be an intriguing pitching duel. Ohtani, known for his exceptional repertoire, will look to exploit his high whiff percentage to keep the Pirates' bats at bay. His ability to generate swings and misses will be crucial in navigating a Pirates lineup that has struggled to make consistent contact.

Braxton Ashcraft will need to rely on his command and movement to offset the Dodgers' potent offense. Ashcraft's challenge will be limiting hard-hit balls against a Dodgers team known for driving the ball with authority. His effectiveness in inducing weak contact will be paramount to his success in this matchup.

Dodgers Hitting Analysis

The Dodgers' offense has been a force to be reckoned with, showcasing a team weighted offensive contribution that places them among the league's elite. Their ability to hit for both average and power makes them a constant threat. They will be squaring off against Ashcraft, who has shown vulnerability to teams with high batting average on balls in play.

A crucial factor for the Dodgers will be their plate discipline. Ashcraft's reliance on getting batters to chase pitches outside the strike zone means the Dodgers' hitters will need to remain patient and selective. The Dodgers' ability to work deep counts and capitalize on mistakes could dictate the flow of the game.

Specifically, the Dodgers' capability of minimizing their strikeout percentage could play a significant role. Ashcraft's success often hinges on generating strikeouts, so the Dodgers' hitters must focus on putting the ball in play and leveraging their team batting average to manufacture runs.

Pirates Hitting Analysis

The Pirates' offense will face a stern test against Ohtani's overpowering arsenal. One key aspect of their approach will be their ability to improve their chase percentage. Ohtani excels at coaxing hitters into swinging at pitches outside the strike zone, so the Pirates will need to demonstrate discipline and focus on pitches they can drive.

The Pirates will need to leverage their power effectively against Ohtani. His ability to limit their isolated power percentage will be tested. By focusing on driving the ball into the gaps and avoiding easy outs, the Pirates can maximize their chances of scoring runs.

A critical area for the Pirates will be improving their ability to avoid strikeouts. Ohtani's command of the strike zone and ability to induce swings and misses makes him a strikeout threat. The Pirates will need to shorten their swings, focus on making contact, and put the ball in play to put pressure on the Dodgers' defense.

Game Prediction

This game sets up as a classic pitching-versus-hitting showdown. Ohtani's prowess on the mound will be a major challenge for the Pirates' offense, while Ashcraft will need to be at his sharpest to contain the Dodgers' powerful lineup. The Dodgers' consistency and offensive firepower give them a slight edge, but the Pirates' determination and home-field advantage could make for a tight, competitive contest.

The Dodgers' discipline at the plate and Ohtani's ability to get strikeouts will be the difference in the game. The Pirates will put up a good fight and make the Dodgers earn the victory but the Dodgers will come out victorious.

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