COLUMN: The Dodgers’ issue has plagued them for the past two postseason runs….

COLUMN: The Dodgers’ issue has plagued them for the past two postseason runs…. As the Los Angeles Dodgers gear up for another postseason, fans and analysts alike can’t help but recall the bitter disappointment of the past two years. The team has boasted one of the most formidable rosters in Major League Baseball, yet their playoff performances have been marred by the same recurring issue: the inability to deliver in high-pressure situations.

#### The Ghosts of October Past

In both 2021 and 2022, the Dodgers entered the postseason with sky-high expectations. In 2021, they won 106 games and were widely considered favorites to defend their 2020 World Series title. Yet, they fell short against the Atlanta Braves in the National League Championship Series (NLCS), a series that showcased a troubling pattern: an inconsistent offense and critical mistakes in pivotal moments. The Dodgers scored just 17 runs over six games, and their bats fell silent when it mattered most.

Fast forward to 2022, and the Dodgers again dominated the regular season, winning 111 games. However, their October struggles continued as they were stunned by the San Diego Padres in the National League Division Series (NLDS). Despite an explosive lineup, the Dodgers batted a dismal .175 in the series, with stars like Cody Bellinger and Justin Turner failing to deliver in clutch moments.

#### The Offensive Drought

The heart of the Dodgers’ struggles lies in their offense. During the regular season, they are a juggernaut, with a lineup that can hit for power and average. Yet, come playoff time, the pressure seems to tighten their grip. This year’s postseason will be critical in determining whether this trend continues. High-stakes games demand more than just talent; they require a mental toughness that the Dodgers have yet to prove they possess in October.

One of the biggest concerns is the performance of their stars. Mookie Betts, Freddie Freeman, and Trea Turner can carry a team through the regular season, but when the playoffs roll around, they have to elevate their game. In the past two postseasons, their performances have been inconsistent at best. Betts and Freeman’s struggles with runners in scoring position have been particularly glaring, as both players have the potential to shift momentum with one swing of the bat.

#### The Bullpen Quandary

Another factor that has plagued the Dodgers is their bullpen management. Manager Dave Roberts has often been criticized for his handling of relief pitchers during high-stakes games. The reliance on matchups and analytics can backfire in tight situations, leading to questionable decisions that cost the team critical runs. In the 2022 NLDS, for instance, Roberts faced backlash for his handling of his pitchers in the decisive Game 4, where early mistakes allowed the Padres to build an insurmountable lead.

The bullpen’s inconsistency has made it difficult for the Dodgers to close out games, especially in tight contests. The absence of a reliable closer has been felt deeply. While the regular season can mask these deficiencies, the postseason magnifies them. Every run matters, and any misstep can be the difference between advancing and going home.

#### The Pressure Factor

The pressure of the postseason cannot be overstated. The weight of expectations can be suffocating, particularly for a franchise that hasn’t won a World Series since 1988. The specter of past failures looms large, and each loss adds to the burden. It’s a cycle that can become self-perpetuating, where the fear of failure leads to more failures.

The mental aspect of the game is crucial. The Dodgers need players who can rise to the occasion and shake off the jitters that come with high-stakes play. This requires a level of resilience and experience that they’ve struggled to cultivate in recent years. Veterans can help, but they need to step up and lead by example when the pressure mounts.

#### A Call to Action

As the Dodgers prepare for another postseason run, it’s imperative that they address these issues head-on. They must focus on maintaining a consistent approach at the plate, especially in key situations. Their hitters need to be more aggressive and confident when it matters most.

Additionally, Roberts and his coaching staff must develop a cohesive game plan for the bullpen that doesn’t just rely on matchups. Trusting relievers to execute in high-pressure situations is essential, and building that trust begins in the regular season.

Ultimately, the Dodgers have the talent to go deep into October. But talent alone isn’t enough. If they are to shed the ghosts of their postseason past, they must learn to embrace the pressure, execute under duress, and finally deliver when it counts. Only then can they hope to reclaim their place atop the baseball world.