Dodgers eying a 3rd straight World Series title as NLDS opener nears

The Los Angeles Dodgers are preparing for their NL Division Series opener against the Atlanta Braves as they seek a third consecutive World Series title. If successful, Los Angeles would become the first team to win three straight titles since the New York Yankees from 1998 to 2000, and the first National League club ever to accomplish the feat. The best-of-five series against Atlanta begins Saturday in Los Angeles.

Manager Dave Roberts and veteran players, including Freddie Freeman and Max Muncy, emphasized managing pressure and relying on postseason experience during their bye week. Freeman confirmed he feels good physically after addressing a knee issue, while Shohei Ohtani enters the NLDS recovering from recent biceps and knee troubles. However, the Dodgers will be without injured reliever Blake Treinen for the postseason.