The Los Angeles Dodgers secured their place as the third seed in the National League after winning the MLBWest Division title. They earned the right to open the wild-card round at home, where they will host the Cincinnati Reds in a best-of-three series.
Cincinnati qualified by the narrowest of margins, with a record of 83-79, thanks to a combination of results on the final day. Despite losing to the Brewers, the Mets’ loss opened the door for them to the National League’s last ticket. They will now face one of the most complete teams in Major League Baseball at the always intimidating Dodger Stadium.
How did the Dodgers and Reds reach the 2025 Wild Card?
The series will be played entirely in Los Angeles, with the first game scheduled for Tuesday, September 30 at 9:08 p.m. ET, with the next games scheduled for October 1 and 2. Home field advantage and postseason experience make the Dodgers the favorites, although in October nothing is certain.
During the regular season, Los Angeles dominated Cincinnati with a 5-1 record, including a home sweep in late August. The Californians’ offense posted a .264/.345/.433 batting line against the Reds with seven home runs and 53 hits in six games. If that trend continues, the visitors will have to rely on surprise to advance.
Shohei Ohtani, Snell and Yamamoto: Who starts for the Dodgers in the playoffs?
Although the starting rotation has not yet been confirmed, it seems that the trio of Shohei Ohtani, Blake Snell and Yoshinobu Yamamoto will lead the Dodgers’ pitching in the Wild Card Series. The most notable absence will be Clayton Kershaw, who was not included for this round, although he could return if the team advances to the divisional round.
As for the roster, manager Dave Roberts could see the return of key players such as Max Muncy and Tommy Edman, who are expected to be ready for Game 1, while catcher Will Smith remains under observation following a hand injury.
With home field advantage, a powerful offense and an elite pitching staff, the Dodgers have all the tools to overcome Cincinnati and continue their path to a new World Series.
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