Dodgers, Red Sox Battle Post-Break Slumps in Key Series

The Los Angeles Dodgers, reigning NL West champions with a strong track record including two World Series titles this decade, are facing some challenges with key players like Mookie Betts potentially missing games due to personal matters. Despite injuries and a batting slump, the Dodgers remain competitive, with Shohei Ohtani aiming to set a franchise record for consecutive games with a home run. The Boston Red Sox are in the midst of a rebuild, showing promise with emerging young talent but struggling with consistency, especially on the road. Both teams are preparing for a pivotal three-game series at Fenway Park, which could be influenced by the health of Boston's third baseman Marcelo Mayer and the pitching matchup between Brayan Bello and Emmet Sheehan. The series highlights the contrasting trajectories of the two teams: the Dodgers' sustained success and depth versus the Red Sox's efforts to establish lasting contention. With both teams coming off recent nail-biting wins and battling offensive slumps, the outcome of this series could have significant playoff implications.