Dodgers Adjust Pitching Plan for NLDS

The Los Angeles Dodgers have announced a last-minute change to their pitching rotation for the National League Division Series against the San Diego Padres, flipping Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Jack Flaherty's starting assignments. Yamamoto will now start Game 1, while Flaherty takes the mound in Game 2, a strategic move intended to give Yamamoto an extra day of rest for a potential Game 5. Dodgers President of Baseball Operations Andrew Friedman emphasized the importance of flexibility in managing their pitching staff, especially given the uncertain nature of playoff games. Yamamoto's previous outings against the Padres were challenging, having struggled in both starts earlier this season. The rivalry between the Dodgers and Padres intensifies as they meet in the playoffs for the third time in five years, with the Padres having won their last postseason matchup. The Dodgers, who had the best record in baseball, are preparing for a highly competitive series, with both teams well-acquainted with each other's strategies.