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Pittsburgh Pirates set for tough matchup against Los Angeles Dodgers
THE DODGERS AT THE PLATE
Truth be told, you could discuss most of the Dodgers starter when it comes to the Dodgers' hitters to know. Out of their 10 qualified hitters, six have posted OPS+ of 124 or better including Sohhei Ohtani, Mookie Betts, and Freddie Freeman who have all posted OPS+ of 150 or above so far this spring. We don't have to say too much more about this trio, they're the best trio in the sport and its not particulary close. Together, the three this season have combined for a .311/.401/.530 line with a combined 30 home runs and 105 RBI in 61 games.
29-year-old catcher Will Smith, who signed a mega-extension earlier in the year, is having a great season, posting a .294/.356/.510 slash line with nine home runs and 37 RBI. His current OPS+ of 145 would be the best of his career since becoming the Dodgers' full-time starter in 2021. The sixth-year catcher has become one of the best in baseball and is proving that this season.
Former Toronto Blue Jay and Seattle Mariners outfielder Teoscar Hernandez is off to a good start this season with a .255/.323/.468 slash and a 124 OPS+. He has 12 home runs and 38 RBI this season. He's been consistent for the Dodgers throughout the season thus far.
Notably, Max Muncy will not be available for the Dodgers this week as he's on the 10-day injured list with an oblique strain. His potential return remains murky after being shutdown on Monday after experiencing pain in his ribcage while swining but the one thing for certain is that the Pirates will not have to face the slugger this week.