Dodgers 2024 World Series Blueprint: 7 Must-Dos to Beat the Yankees

7. Avoid Taxing the Bullpen

While the Dodgers' bullpen has been a strength, overworking it could become a liability. If starting pitchers can go deeper into games, it will prevent the bullpen from being overused early in the series, which is vital for the later games.

2. Maximize the Bullpen's Depth

The Dodgers’ bullpen has been dominant, but the team will need to continue to lean on its depth. With a potential bullpen game in the rotation, relief pitchers like Blake Treinen and Michael Kopech must stay sharp. If the bullpen maintains its October form, it will be a huge asset in limiting the Yankees' offense.

3. Yamamoto and Buehler Must Continue Their Momentum

Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Walker Buehler both had strong recent starts. The Dodgers need them to build on that success and keep up their momentum in Games 2 and 3. Yamamoto, in particular, has shown improvement throughout the playoffs, and a strong outing from him can put the Dodgers in control early.

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4. Shut Down Yankees' Right-Handed Power

The Yankees boast one of the best offenses against right-handed pitchers, led by Aaron Judge and Juan Soto. The Dodgers' right-handed starters must find ways to neutralize this power. Limiting the damage from Judge and Soto will be key in keeping the Yankees’ lineup from breaking open games.

5. Rely on the Supporting Cast

While Shohei Ohtani and Mookie Betts will get the spotlight, the Dodgers’ supporting players need to keep contributing. Enrique Hernández, Tommy Edman, and Will Smith have all had key moments during the playoffs. Continued production from these players will be crucial in providing offensive depth.

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6. Exploit the Yankees’ Weak Baserunning

The Yankees were not a good baserunning team this season, ranking 30th in BsR and 24th in stolen bases. The Dodgers should capitalize on any mistakes they make on the basepaths, whether it's aggressive steals or forcing errors. Taking advantage of this weakness could provide a critical edge in close games.

7. Avoid Taxing the Bullpen

While the Dodgers' bullpen has been a strength, overworking it could become a liability. If starting pitchers can go deeper into games, it will prevent the bullpen from being overused early in the series, which is vital for the later games.