Despite a historic level of injuries, and an injury to their ace, the Los Angeles Dodgers made the postseason. What will they need to do in order to get back to the World Series?
The 2016 season was a trying one for the Los Angeles Dodgers. With a rookie manager, and high expectations, the pressure was certainly on Dave Roberts and his staff. Then came a rash of injuries the likes of which had not been seen in MLB history, as the Dodgers had 27 players on the disabled list throughout the season.
That led to a great deal of turnover. A total of 55 players made an appearance for Los Angeles, as the team was desperate for anything resembling a healthy body. It got to the point where 31 different pitchers took the mound, including 15 different starters. Roberts had quite the test in his first season.
Yet, despite a plethora of injuries that would destroy another team, including Clayton Kershaw‘s back issues, the Dodgers rolled along. They finished the season with a 91-71 record, winning the National League West before falling to the Chicago Cubs in the National League Championship Series. Even though they entered the season with World Series aspirations, the 2016 cmapaign has to be considered a success, all things considered,
However, next season, that pressure will be back on. The Los Angeles Dodgers will be aiming to return to the World Series for the first time since 1988. With a seemingly unlimited payroll, and one of the best executives in the game, nothing less would be acceptable. So what moves would they need to make to return? Let’s take a look.