Last week, we delved into how crucial starting pitching is for the success of the Los Angeles Dodgers as they approach the 2024 playoffs. Since that time, both Clayton Kershaw and Gavin Stone have landed on the injured list, impacting the outlook of the postseason starting rotation. Now, as the team gears up for the final stretch of the regular season, the spotlight is shifting to their offense.

While pitching often steals the show in the playoffs, it’s the team’s daily batting order that needs to step up. With one of the most top-heavy lineups in the majors, their ability to dominate at the plate might very well determine their fate in the postseason. As the Dodgers march toward October, their offensive performance will be under the microscope, and its success could be the key to their championship aspirations.

At the heart of the offense is Shohei Ohtani, Mookie Betts, Freddie Freeman, and Teoscar Hernandez. This quartet is arguably the most potent in baseball, each bringing a unique skill set that makes the lineup nearly unstoppable on most nights.

Ohtani, who is among the frontrunners for the National League MVP with MLB’s first-ever 45/45 season, is a dual threat that can alter the course of a game with a single swing. Betts combines decent contact skills with power and speed in the two-hole, making him a constant threat to opposing pitchers. Freeman’s consistent bat and high on-base percentage provide stability and drive in the heart of the lineup.

Hernandez, with his power and ability to drive in runs, complements the trio perfectly. Together, these four create a formidable offensive force that can put up runs in bunches and put immense pressure on opposing pitching.

The Dodgers experienced a concerning moment on Friday night when Hernandez was hit by a pitch, causing him to miss two games. The scare showed how much a single injury could alter the daily lineup, but the good news is that Hernandez is expected to return to the lineup against the Cubs on Monday. His presence is crucial, and his return is paramount to the team’s overall offensive production.

While the top of the order can produce runs in droves, the bottom half of the lineup has been a cause for concern. Players like Gavin Lux, Miguel Rojas and Andy Pages had impressive midseason surges to quiet the naysayers, offering hope for a more balanced attack.

However, Lux is slashing just .229/.343/.660 since August 23, while players like Chris Taylor and Enrique Hernandez still show weakness at the lower end of the order. Their inconsistency has been a challenge, making it clear that the Dodgers need more reliable production from these spots to support their star hitters.

Looking ahead to the playoffs, the Dodgers will need key contributors like Max Muncy and Will Smith to step up significantly in the five and six holes. Both players have high potential, but Smith has struggled with consistency and Muncy was affected by an oblique injury that kept him on the shelf for much of the regular season.

If the top quartet of Ohtani, Betts, Freeman, and Hernandez faces any downturn in their performance, it will be crucial for Muncy and Smith to deliver in a big way. Their ability to provide additional run support and maintain pressure on opposing pitchers will be pivotal in ensuring that the club’s offensive prowess remains a strength, even if their top hitters cool down.

The depth and balance of the offense could determine their capacity to maintain relentless pressure on opponents and secure a deep playoff run, especially when considering the current state of the starting pitching rotation. As October looms, the team’s quest for a championship will hinge on a collective effort, with every player needing to rise to the occasion.