Dodgers Revamp Lineup for Crucial World Series Game 5 Against Blue Jays
The Los Angeles Dodgers are making strategic adjustments to their lineup for World Series Game 5 against the Toronto Blue Jays. This decision follows their disappointing performance in Game 4, where they lost. With the series tied at 2–2, the Dodgers are looking to regain momentum.
Lineup Changes Ahead of Game 5
Catcher Will Smith is taking over Mookie Betts’s previous role as the No. 2 hitter. Betts will shift down to the No. 3 position, which had previously been occupied by Freddie Freeman. Freeman will now hit fourth in the batting order.
Batting Statistics
Mookie Betts has struggled in the postseason, garnering three hits— all singles— during the World Series. His postseason statistics include an on-base plus slugging percentage (OPS) of just .688. These disappointing numbers have prompted the Dodgers to rethink their batting lineup.
- Mookie Betts: Moved from No. 2 to No. 3 hitter
- Freddie Freeman: Bats fourth
- Will Smith: New No. 2 hitter
Additional Adjustments in the Field
Outfield changes are also part of the Dodgers’ strategy. Alex Call will start in left field, replacing Andy Pages, who has faced challenges at the plate. Pages has managed only four hits in 50 postseason at-bats, including just one in the World Series. Kike Hernández will take center field for Game 5.
- Alex Call: Starting left fielder
- Kike Hernández: New center fielder
- Andy Pages: Moved to the bench
Crucial Game 5 Expectations
The stakes for Game 5 are high, as the Dodgers are viewed as favorites in the World Series. The outcome will be pivotal in deciding whether they can regain their lead before the series shifts back to Toronto’s Rogers Centre. The pressure is on the team to use these lineup revamps effectively to secure a win.
As anticipation builds for the matchup, fans are hopeful that these alterations will lead the Dodgers to a much-needed victory in this critical game.
