NLDS Opener in Extreme Heat
Dodgers Open NLDS Against Braves Amid Historic Extreme Heat Warnings
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Key Points
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The forecasted heat would be unusually severe for both clubs: neither the Braves nor Dodgers had played a game with a first-pitch temperature above 97 degrees this season. Dodgers starter Tarik Skubal urged fans to hydrate, while manager Dave Roberts said a night game would have been more beneficial.
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A 103-degree first pitch in the 2017 World Series at Dodger Stadium is the hottest game-time temperature previously recorded for a postseason matchup, a mark Saturday’s conditions could challenge.
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The likely Dodgers Game 1 lineup has accumulated 534 postseason games. Kiké Hernández has played a franchise-record 103 postseason games, including 92 with Los Angeles.
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In the 2025 World Series, Will Klein threw four scoreless innings in an 18-inning Game 3 and earned the win. He had made only 15â…“ regular-season innings that year and was on the roster largely because Alex Vesia was unavailable.
The Los Angeles Dodgers open their National League Division Series against the Atlanta Braves on Saturday at Dodger Stadium, beginning a quest for a third consecutive World Series title SI. The Braves advanced by eliminating Philadelphia, though they won five of six regular-season meetings against Los Angeles. Game 1 tips off at an unusual 1 p.m. local time, with forecasts calling for temperatures above 100 degrees and an extreme-heat warning in effect.
The Dodgers hold home-field advantage and boast a veteran roster with deep postseason experience, though long seasons have taken a physical and emotional toll Bellingham Herald. Tickets remain surprisingly affordable and seats still available, despite the team's record-setting regular-season attendance. A key question mark: reliever Will Klein, the hero of last year's World Series extra-inning victory, is recovering from an elbow injury with his roster spot uncertain.
Heat Could Break Postseason Temperature Record
Saturday's forecasted heat would be unusually severe for both clubs Kentucky. Neither the Braves nor Dodgers played a single regular-season game with a first-pitch temperature above 97 degrees. The previous postseason record stands at 103 degrees, set during the 2017 World Series at Dodger Stadium. Manager Dave Roberts said a night game would have been more beneficial for player safety.
Dodgers starter Tarik Skubal urged fans to hydrate and take precautions Sacramento Bee. The extreme-heat warning adds urgency to game-planning, as both teams adjust their preparation and conditioning strategies. Umpires will monitor player safety closely throughout the matchup.
Dodgers Lineup Brings 534 Postseason Games of Experience
Los Angeles' likely Game 1 lineup is loaded with playoff veterans Island Packet. Kiké Hernández leads the way with a franchise-record 103 postseason games played, including 92 with the Dodgers. The entire projected batting order has combined for 534 playoff games, giving the team a significant edge in composure and execution during high-pressure moments.
This depth of experience has anchored the Dodgers' consecutive World Series appearances and their push for a third straight title. Veteran players understand what it takes to advance and perform when stakes are highest.
Will Klein's Uncertain Status Clouds Dodgers Roster Planning
Relief pitcher Will Klein earned his place on last year's World Series roster despite making only 15â…“ regular-season innings SI. In Game 3 of that series, he threw four scoreless innings in an grueling 18-inning contest and earned the win. This postseason, he's recovering from an elbow injury and has resumed live batting practice, but his limited buildup leaves his Game 1 availability in question.
His status symbolizes the toll repeated deep runs take on rosters. The Dodgers must decide whether to include him at less than full strength or rely on other relievers, a choice that could shape their pitching strategy throughout the series.
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