USA Today via Reuters
Oct 17, 2021; Cumberland, Georgia, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers starting pitcher Max Scherzer (31) has his glove and hat inspected between innings against the Atlanta Braves during the fourth inning in game two of the 2021 NLCS at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
USA Today via Reuters
Oct 17, 2021; Cumberland, Georgia, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers starting pitcher Max Scherzer (31) has his glove and hat inspected between innings against the Atlanta Braves during the fourth inning in game two of the 2021 NLCS at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
The Los Angeles Dodgers find themselves in a do-or-die situation against the Atlanta Braves in Game 6, which takes place today. During the last few weeks, the reigning World Series champions saw key players suffer injuries which hurt their postseason. And earlier today, their ace pitcher Max Scherzer joined that list.
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According to sources, the 37-year-old will not take part in today’s game. He joins fellow pitchers Clayton Kershaw and Joe Kelly on the injured list, the latter suffering a right bicep injury during Game 5.
Max Scherzer to miss crucial Game 6 of the NLCS
Scherzer joined the Dodgers mid-season after spending six incredible seasons with the Washington Nationals. While he won the World Series with the Nationals, he made quite the impact with the Dodgers this season, earning a spot in the MLB All-Star game.
He produced crucial moments in this year’s MLB playoffs as well. One of his most notable moments came in Game 5 of the NLDS against the San Francisco Giants. Coming on as a relief pitcher, he ensured the Giants didn’t score in the bottom of the ninth inning, sending the Dodgers to the NLCS.
USA Today via Reuters
Oct 14, 2021; San Francisco, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers starting pitcher Max Scherzer (31) reacts after defeating the San Francisco Giants in game five of the 2021 NLDS at Oracle Park. Mandatory Credit: Neville E. Guard-USA TODAY Sports
After the Dodgers lost Game 2 of the NLCS to the Braves, Scherzer admitted he felt his arm was dead. Sources suggest the 37-year-old continues to suffer from soreness, which rules him out of today’s game. This poses a huge dilemma for Dodgers manager Dave Roberts. Although he has talented pitchers like Walker Buehler in the bullpen, he will need to find the best possible way to use them.
Can the Los Angeles Dodgers keep the NLCS alive today?
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In terms of injuries, the Dodgers couldn’t have a worse NLCS than they are having right now. During the series, they lost Justin Turner, Joe Kelly and now Scherzer to injuries.
USA Today via Reuters
Oct 17, 2021; Cumberland, Georgia, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts (30) pulls starting pitcher Max Scherzer (31) cycles during the fifth inning against the Atlanta Braves in game two of the 2021 NLCS at Truist Park. Mandatory Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
However, they still have very talented players who could change the game. With names like Mookie Betts, Corey Seager and Cody Bellinger in the side, the Dodgers will hope they can deliver another stellar hitting performance today to put less pressure on their pitchers.
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While the Braves have home advantage, the Dodgers cannot be counted out due to their impressive roster. Whether they can conjure another result under intense pressure, only time will tell.
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