The Los Angeles Dodgers have been on fire as of late, winning seven out of their last ten games heading into the all-star break. The team is currently 2.5 games out of first place in the National League West division with a 47-47 record. This stretch of wins comes after the team was in last place a month ago, sitting 8.5 games out of first place.
The Arizona Diamondbacks are currently leading the NL West, but they have been shaky as of late, especially after getting swept by the Dodgers in a 3-game series this week. The Dodgers also improved their starting pitching, as they recently acquired starting pitcher Ricky Nolasco from the Miami Marlins. Nolasco started his first game for the Dodgers this past Tuesday against the Diamondbacks. He won the game after allowing only one earned run through seven innings. The Dodgers are also reportedly interested in signing another starting pitcher, Matt Garza of the Chicago Cubs. Garza has been great as of late, which can only improve his chances of being dealt. The Cleveland Indians and Texas Rangers have also been named as possible suitors for Garza, as well.
The team has also gotten some help from their key hitters, shortstop Hanley Ramirez and first baseman Adrian Gonzalez. Rookie outfielder Yasiel Puig has cooled down a bit since his hot start, but his bat is still a major weapon for the team. Fellow outfielder Matt Kemp was recently placed on the 15-day disabled list with a shoulder problem, but the team has played well without him. Starting pitcher Clayton Kershaw has also been great as of late, winning three straight starts, and only giving up three earned runs in those three games combined.
The Dodgers certainly have the tools to win their division. If they can somehow acquire Matt Garza before the trade deadline, this team will be set for a strong second half run. Ramirez and Gonzalez need to stay consistent, though. Kershaw will be nothing to worry about, as he is usually a guaranteed quality start every time he pitches. When Kemp returns from the disabled list, the team will also count on him to play at the quality level he is known to. If the Dodgers can do all these things, there is no doubt they can win their division and glide into the postseason.
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