The National League Division Series between the Los Angeles Dodgers and Philadelphia Phillies opens today at Citizens Bank Park, and the spotlight couldn’t be brighter. Both teams have officially announced their 26-man rosters, revealing intriguing choices shaped by health, balance, and October strategy.
Dodgers Add Experience, Keep Flexibility
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Los Angeles enters the NLDS with the same roster structure as their Wild Card sweep of the Reds — 15 position players and 11 pitchers — but with two key reinforcements. Clayton Kershaw and Anthony Banda replace lefty Justin Wrobleski and right-hander Edgardo Henriquez, giving the Dodgers a heavier southpaw presence against Philadelphia’s left-handed core.
Kershaw’s inclusion carries emotional weight. The 35-year-old will pitch out of the bullpen in what’s expected to be his final postseason run. His command and composure could prove critical in tight late-game situations.
The Dodgers also return Will Smith, who continues to recover from a hairline fracture in his right hand. His presence, alongside Ben Rortvedt and rookie Dalton Rushing, gives Los Angeles the needed stability behind the plate as they manage workloads during a short series.
Ohtani’s two-way availability once again offers roster flexibility — the Dodgers can carry extra bats without exceeding the pitching limit. With Ohtani, Blake Snell, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, and Tyler Glasnow expected to anchor the rotation, manager Dave Roberts has more bullpen maneuverability than usual.
Phillies Lean on Lefties, Depth, and Experience
Vote For Your Favorite Dodgers Duo: Ohtani – Yamamoto, Betts – Freeman, Hernandez – Hernandez
The Phillies’ roster construction reflects their strength: power from the left side and versatility across the diamond. Six left-handed pitchers are active, including Sánchez, Ranger Suárez, and Jesús Luzardo — a trio that could start each of the first three games. “It’s a matchup advantage we want to lean into,” a team source told The Athletic earlier this week.
Bryce Harper headlines a balanced offense that also features Kyle Schwarber’s 56 home runs and Trea Turner’s NL-best .304 batting average. J.T. Realmuto’s defensive leadership remains invaluable, while Brandon Marsh, Harrison Bader, and Max Kepler give Philadelphia three quality defensive outfielders with postseason experience.
Infield depth comes from Edmundo Sosa and Otto Kemp, both capable of shifting across multiple positions. The loss of Johan Rojas to a quad injury trimmed their outfield speed, but the Phillies compensated with Weston Wilson’s right-handed bat off the bench.
On the mound, closer Jhoan Duran — acquired at the trade deadline — anchors a bullpen rounded out by veterans Matt Strahm, David Robertson, and Aaron Nola, who could also serve as a swingman.
October Chess Match Begins
Game 1 offers a compelling stylistic clash: Ohtani’s electric stuff against a Phillies team that thrives on left-handed power and postseason poise. For the Dodgers, the return of Kershaw and Smith injects experience and stability. For Philadelphia, it’s about momentum and exploiting matchups.
Both clubs look deep, deliberate, and determined — and tonight, their 26-man blueprints will finally be put to the test.
