The spotlight shines on Coors Field Wednesday night as the Los Angeles Dodgers send Shohei Ohtani to the mound against the Colorado Rockies and Tanner Gordon. First pitch is set for 8:40 PM ET, and while the Dodgers are chasing October dominance, the Rockies aim to play spoiler at home in the thin Denver air.
Los Angeles Dodgers Outlook
With Shohei Ohtani taking the ball, the Dodgers once again showcase why they’re one of the most formidable teams in baseball. Ohtani’s two-way brilliance has defined the season—he brings an overpowering fastball, a lethal splitter, and a slider that makes even elite hitters uncomfortable. Offensively, the Dodgers are stacked, led by Mookie Betts, Freddie Freeman, and Ohtani himself in the lineup. The challenge in Denver will be keeping the ball in the park, but Ohtani’s swing-and-miss stuff makes him the perfect weapon.
Colorado Rockies Outlook
The Rockies turn to Tanner Gordon, a pitcher still trying to establish himself in the majors. Gordon leans on command and mixing pitches, but against a Dodgers lineup that feasts on mistakes, he faces a daunting assignment. Colorado’s offense, anchored by Kris Bryant and Nolan Jones, will look to capitalize on the Coors Field boost. If they can force Ohtani into deep counts and reach the bullpen early, the Rockies could turn this into a slugfest.
Key Matchup to Watch
- Ohtani vs. the Coors Effect: Even the best arms struggle in Denver. Limiting homers and managing pitch count will be crucial.
- Dodgers lineup vs. Gordon’s command: If Gordon can’t locate, Los Angeles could break the game open early.
Prediction and Best Bets
The Rockies’ home advantage is always tricky, but the gulf in pitching talent here is massive. Ohtani should dominate if he keeps the ball down, while the Dodgers’ offense has too many weapons for Gordon to contain.
Best Bets:
- Dodgers -1.5 Run Line
- Over 10.5 runs (Coors Field tends to push games higher-scoring)
Final Score Prediction: Dodgers 8, Rockies 4
