Dodgers secure NL West title, face questions ahead of playoffs
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 17, 2026, 11:52 PM
Last updated Sep 17, 2026

The Los Angeles Dodgers clinched the NL West title by defeating the Cincinnati Reds 8-2 on September 17. This marks their fifth consecutive division championship, adding to a total of 13 titles in the last 14 years. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts emphasized the need for focus as they prepare for the postseason. Key questions for the team include the health status of Shohei Ohtani, roster concerns due to age and injuries, and determining the pitching rotation for the playoffs. Ohtani's return as a designated hitter is anticipated soon, while the roster's average age and several players' injuries could impact their postseason strategy.
- •Dodgers win their fifth straight NL West title on September 17.
- •Shohei Ohtani could return as a designated hitter by September 23.
- •Team's roster average age is the highest in MLB at 30.6 years.
- •Pitching rotation concerns surround health status of Tarik Skubal and Blake Snell.
- •Freddie Freeman is day-to-day due to knee soreness.
- 11:52 PMYahoo Sports — The Dodgers have won the NL West again. Now what? 4 biggest questions entering playoffs
"The Los Angeles Dodgers are NL West champions again, but several big questions remain unanswered ahead of the postseason.
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