Dodgers’ NLCS roster vs Brewers includes Clayton Kershaw, Ben Casparius

The Los Angeles Dodgers are turning their focus to the National League Championship Series (NLCS) as they get ready to face the Milwaukee Brewers. Their roster is now officially set.

After knocking out the top-seeded Philadelphia Phillies in four games during the NL Division Series, Los Angeles is hoping for back-to-back World Series titles. The roster looks pretty much the same, but there’s one notable change and a few health updates that hint at the team’s approach for this high-stakes matchup.

Dodgers Make a Key Roster Adjustment Ahead of NLCS

The Dodgers made just one substitution from their NLDS roster, which says a lot about their trust in this group. Right-handed pitcher Ben Casparius joins the team for the NLCS, taking the spot of third catcher Dalton Rushing.

Casparius Brings Flexibility to the Pitching Staff

This move seems pretty strategic. Casparius adds some depth to the bullpen, which could come in handy if things get dicey on the mound.

By dropping a third catcher, manager Dave Roberts seems sure that his main catchers are healthy and ready to go. It’s a risk, but maybe not a huge one.

Will Smith’s Recovery Allows for More Options

Letting Rushing go is partly because starting catcher Will Smith is on the mend. Smith fractured his right hand late in the regular season, which kept him off the field for a stretch in September and early October.

Smith Ready for Heavy Workload

Now, Smith looks ready to handle more behind the plate. That opens a spot for someone like Casparius, which could matter in a long series.

Smith’s steady defense and his bat are going to matter a lot against Milwaukee’s arms. That’s not really up for debate.

Clayton Kershaw’s Role Despite Recent Struggles

One of the big storylines going into the NLCS is veteran left-hander Clayton Kershaw. His last start in Game 3 of the NLDS didn’t go well—he gave up five runs, four earned, in just two innings.

Experience Still Valued in October Baseball

Even after that rough outing, the Dodgers aren’t moving on from Kershaw. They’re still counting on his playoff experience and leadership.

October baseball has a way of rewarding veterans who can shake off bad starts. Maybe Kershaw’s got another big moment in him.

Dodgers’ Approach Heading Into the NLCS

Los Angeles brings a mix of seasoned vets and hungry young players into this series. They just took care of the Phillies, but now they’ve got to deal with a Brewers squad that can pitch and take advantage of mistakes.

Keys to Success Against the Brewers

For the Dodgers to reach the World Series again, a few things have to click:

• Strong starting pitching to set the tone early in games.
• Bullpen depth and flexibility, thanks in part to Casparius.
• Offensive production from the heart of the lineup, especially Smith and Mookie Betts.
• Veteran leadership from players like Kershaw in high-pressure moments.

Looking Ahead

The Dodgers’ roster tweak shows they trust their core players but know how tough the postseason grind can be. With Will Smith healthy and Casparius now in the bullpen, Dave Roberts has a little more room to maneuver as the NLCS unfolds.

Pursuit of Back-to-Back Championships

With a chance to reach the World Series again and defend their crown, Los Angeles feels the pressure mounting. The margin for error gets smaller with every playoff round.

Every pitch matters. Every swing and defensive play could tip the scales as they try to prove they’re still the team everyone’s chasing in October.

Maybe Kershaw dials back the years and finds that old magic. Or maybe Smith steps up with those clutch hits when it counts.

The Dodgers have a blueprint. They want to blend championship experience with the grit and adaptability you need to survive October.

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