Game Overview
The Los Angeles Dodgers (73–46) make the short trip to Anaheim to take on the Los Angeles Angels (56–63) in an interleague matchup on Wednesday, August 13, 2025. First pitch is set for 9:38 PM ET at Angel Stadium, with national coverage on MLB Network. The Dodgers are pushing for the NL’s best record, while the Angels are looking to play spoiler and build momentum toward next season. For more expert breakdowns, head over to our MLB betting previews hub.
Team Analysis
Los Angeles Dodgers
The Dodgers’ lineup is stacked with MVP candidates, and Shohei Ohtani’s two-way contributions remain a massive weapon. Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman continue to get on base at an elite clip, setting up run-scoring opportunities for the heart of the order. The bullpen has been reliable, particularly in high-leverage spots.
Los Angeles Angels
The Angels have struggled to find consistency but have shown flashes of strong play, especially when Mike Trout is healthy and producing. Kyle Hendricks is a veteran arm who relies on control and sequencing rather than overpowering stuff — his margin for error against this Dodgers lineup will be razor-thin.
Pitching Matchup
| Team | Starter | Record / ERA | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dodgers | Shohei Ohtani (RHP) | 12–5, 2.74 ERA | One of baseball’s most dominant arms; high strikeout rate, electric splitter, and thrives under the spotlight. |
| Angels | Kyle Hendricks (RHP) | 5–10, 5.41 ERA | Crafty veteran who pitches to contact; must induce grounders and avoid falling behind in counts. |
Assessment: Ohtani holds a clear edge in velocity, swing-and-miss ability, and current form. Hendricks will need near-perfect command to keep the Angels close.
Head-to-Head & Storylines
This series is always a fan favorite in Southern California, and this game has extra sizzle with Ohtani returning to Anaheim in a Dodgers uniform. Expect a fired-up crowd and plenty of media attention on his every move. The Angels’ defense will need to be sharp to support Hendricks against a relentless Dodgers lineup.
Key Players to Watch
- Dodgers: Mookie Betts — his ability to set the table early can tilt the momentum instantly.
- Angels: Mike Trout — the one bat capable of changing the game with a single swing against elite pitching.
Recent Form & Critical Factors
The Dodgers have won 8 of their last 10, showing balance between run prevention and production. The Angels are just 4–6 over the same span, with bullpen issues cropping up in tight games. You can find more MLB game previews like this one for today’s full schedule.
Best Bets & Prediction
- Dodgers -1.5 Run Line (-115) — Ohtani’s dominance and the Dodgers’ offensive firepower suggest a multi-run win.
- Over 9.5 Runs — While Ohtani should be sharp, the Dodgers may do most of the scoring themselves.
- Ohtani Over 8.5 Strikeouts — His swing-and-miss stuff should thrive against an Angels lineup prone to chasing.
Final Score Prediction: Dodgers 7 – Angels 3. Ohtani dazzles in his return to Anaheim, while the Dodgers’ bats take advantage of Hendricks’ contact-heavy approach.
