Ohtani, Dodgers Clinch NL West Despite Bullpen Woes

Shohei Ohtani’s historic season helped the Dodgers finish 89-69 and clinch the NL West. Ohtani delivered strong outings — including a six-scoreless-inning start — strengthening his case as a postseason rotation mainstay and underscoring his two-way value. However, persistent bullpen failures and injuries repeatedly cost Los Angeles late leads, leaving a presumed championship favorite vulnerable. Traditional relievers such as Tanner Scott, Blake Treinen and Kirby Yates posted troubling ERAs and several blown saves, forcing the club to lean on starters for longer outings. Analysts and rivals have taken notice—ESPN’s Jeff Passan has named the Seattle Mariners World Series favorites—and opponents like Arizona countered L.A. with bullpen openers and dominant starts from Zac Gallen, Eduardo Rodríguez, Brandon Pfaadt and Yoshinobu Yamamoto. With postseason roster and contract deadlines (including September roster rules and November qualifying-offer/40-man considerations) looming, the timing of reliever moves and other roster decisions will shape the Dodgers’ October outlook.