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Dodgers Set Skubal for NLDS Game 1
Developing
In Short: The Dodgers' decision to start Skubal reflects their confidence in his ability to perform under pressure.
Tarik Skubal will start for the Dodgers in Game 1 of the National League Division Series against the Atlanta Braves, according to multiple reports.
Skubal, acquired at the trade deadline, expressed excitement about the opportunity to pitch in front of Dodgers fans.
I don’t make any of those decisions," Skubal said. "They tell me when I’m going and I’m ready to go that day.
Skubal has been adjusting to his new team and environment since joining the Dodgers, and he has shown increasing comfort in his role.
The game of baseball doesn’t change in terms of how I’m going to approach it," Skubal said. "How I prepare and how I game plan, all that stuff is going to be kind of the exact same.
Skubal finished the regular season with a 3-2 record and a 2.52 ERA in eight starts for the Dodgers.
The Dodgers' manager, Dave Roberts, has a variety of options for Game 2, including Yoshinobu Yamamoto or Blake Snell.
The Dodgers are in the postseason for the 14th consecutive season, tying the Braves’ record from 1991-2005.
The weather forecast for Saturday's game is expected to be hot, with temperatures reaching into the triple digits.
What this adds
The Dodgers' decision to start Skubal is a reflection of his recent performance and their confidence in his ability to handle high-pressure situations.
Background
The Dodgers' decision to start Skubal reflects their confidence in his ability to perform under pressure.
What's still developing
- The Dodgers and Braves are expecting triple-digit heat for Saturday afternoon’s opener, making hydration a major part of the day for players and fans alike.
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- His favorite memory was attending the insane Game 3 of the World Series in 2025 and hugging random Dodgers fans after Freddie’s walkoff homer.
- For a pitcher who has spent his previous October outings working in hostile ballparks, that part sounds especially appealing.
- “I really appreciate that, and I’m excited to throw in front of them tomorrow.” Skubal has looked increasingly comfortable as his time with the Dodgers has gone on.
- “It’s been good to work through all that stuff, and I feel confident with where I’m at.” He has also quickly picked up on what has driven the Dodgers through two straight championship seasons.
- The left-handed ace was the Dodgers' biggest midseason acquisition when the two-time Cy Young winner joined the two-time defending World Series champions from Detroit in a blockbuster trade.
- He initially struggled in his first few starts but got back into the form that made him one of baseball's most feared pitchers.
- Presumably it would be Chris Sale, but the staff ace pitched in both Game 2 and Game 3 of the wild-card series against the Phillies.