The Los Angeles Dodgers entered the 2025 MLB season as one of the most talked-about teams in baseball.
With a $400 million “super team” led by Shohei Ohtani, Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman, expectations were sky-high.
But as the season reaches its final stretch, the Dodgers find themselves embroiled in a fierce struggle with the San Diego Padres to capture the National League West.
In this blog, we will discuss the current state of the Dodgers, their recent decline, key injuries and what fans should expect as October approaches.
Current standing of the Dodgers in the National League West
As of mid-August 2025, the Dodgers are tied with the San Diego Padres for first place in the National League West, with a record of 69-53.
Just a month ago, they had a commanding nine-game lead.
But a stunning 12-21 run since July 4 has chipped away at that lead.
The Dodgers are still the postseason favorites, but their playoff berth is no longer guaranteed.
From superteam to slump: What went wrong?
The Dodgers were built to dominate.
With Ohtani’s booming home runs, Freeman’s steady bat and Betts’ defensive brilliance,
this roster seemed unstoppable in the spring.
But baseball has a way of wearing down even the most talented teams.
The main problems include:
Pitching injuries that have tested their depth.
Inconsistent hitting aside from Ohtani and Freeman.
Defensive lapses in tight games that cost them key wins.
Max Muncy’s injury adds to woes
The Dodgers’ woes were compounded when third baseman Max Muncy was placed on the 10-day injured list with a right oblique strain—his second IL stint this season.
Muncy’s power bat has been a vital part of the Dodgers’ lineup, and his absence is creating a void at third base. To fill the void, the team has:
Designated RHP Julian Fernandez for assignment
Promoted Buddy Kennedy
Considered Alex Freeland as a possible starter at third base
Ohtani shines amid turmoil
If there’s one constant for the Dodgers in 2025, it’s Shohei Ohtani. The two-way superstar is living up to his massive contract:
Leading the Dodgers’ offense with powerful and flashy hitting
Providing versatility and leadership when the team needs it most
Ohtani’s performance has kept the Dodgers afloat despite midseason losses.
Kershaw’s veteran presence
At 37, Clayton Kershaw continues to show he’s more than just a veteran mentor.
He recently joined the 3,000 strikeout club, and has looked impressive again in his recent outings:
7-2 record
3.14 ERA
Gave up two runs in his last 18 innings
Kershaw’s consistency is what the Dodgers need as they look for another postseason berth.
Dodgers vs. Padres: The Rivalry Resumes
The Dodgers-Padres rivalry has never been this fierce.
With both teams tied in the division, their upcoming head-to-head matchup could determine not only the NL West title, but playoff seeding as well.
For years, the Dodgers have been the kings of the West. But now, the Padres—led by their young stars—are going all-out to win the crown.
Key Challenges Upcoming
The Dodgers won’t have an easy road. They must:
Stay healthy: With Muncy out and pitching depth thin, avoiding further injuries is a must.
Win division matches: Winning games against the Padres, Giants and Diamondbacks is a must.
Rely on the stars: Ohtani, Freeman, Betts and Kershaw need to carry the team through a tough stretch.
Will the Dodgers bounce back?
Despite their poor form, the Dodgers are still loaded with talent. Their offense is at full strength, and if their rotation is healthy, it’s one of the best in baseball.
The key question is: Can they get everything right before October?
If they can, this Dodgers team could still live up to their preseason “superteam” promise.
If not, 2025 could be remembered as the year the Padres finally dethroned them in the NL West.
Final Thoughts
The Los Angeles Dodgers’ 2025 season has been a rollercoaster.
From dominating the division to mid-season team collapses,
injuries and new rivalries, it has tested both the team and the fans’ patience.
But with Ohtani’s talent, Kershaw’s consistency and a team built for October, the Dodgers are still very much alive in the playoff race.
One thing is for sure—the race for the NL West crown is going to be a nail-biter.
