As the Los Angeles Dodgers prepare for Game 6 of the 2025 World Series on October 31, they face a daunting challenge. The team has struggled offensively throughout the series, raising concerns about their ability to secure a championship against the Toronto Blue Jays. With a batting average of .214 and an on-base plus slugging percentage (OPS) of just .360 over 13 playoff games, the Dodgers’ lack of production at the plate could have significant implications for their plans heading into the 2026 season.
The Dodgers entered the World Series after a strong postseason, having lost only one game in the National League Division Series and Championship Series combined. However, their offensive performance has faltered when it matters most. While pitchers have carried the team, the batting lineup, laden with former MVPs, has fallen short under the pressure. Notably, Shohei Ohtani has produced three home runs in the World Series but has struggled outside of a standout Game 3, where he went 2-for-15 overall. Freddie Freeman, who delivered a dramatic walk-off home run in Game 3, has only three hits in total during the series, while Mookie Betts has managed just three hits in 23 at-bats.
The situation has been exacerbated by the effectiveness of the Blue Jays’ pitching staff, which has kept the Dodgers’ offense at bay. Toronto is now just one victory away from winning its first World Series title in 32 years, and the Dodgers have only managed to score nine runs across 36 innings in the last three games. This offensive malaise is not only disheartening for the team but also poses serious questions about their approach as they consider potential changes for the upcoming offseason.
Offseason Strategies in the Face of Adversity
Should the Dodgers fall short in their quest for another championship, it is likely they will reevaluate their roster and pursue top free agents to strengthen their lineup for the 2026 season. Early discussions indicate that they may target Kyle Tucker, a standout offensive player who would significantly enhance their batting depth. Tucker’s impressive OPS+ of 143 during the season would have positioned him as one of the top hitters on the Dodgers, trailing only Ohtani and Will Smith.
The potential for roster changes is heightened by the Dodgers’ current struggles at the plate. If their offensive woes persist through the World Series, the front office may feel increased pressure to make bold moves during the offseason. The memory of their recent failures could serve as motivation to prevent a repeat performance in the 2026 postseason.
As the team navigates this critical moment, the stakes remain high. The Dodgers are in a position where they must confront their offensive challenges head-on while preparing for a future that hinges on their ability to adapt and improve. The outcome of Game 6 could not only determine the fate of their 2025 season but also shape their strategies and spending as they look to reclaim their status as champions in the coming year.
