Dodgers Set NLCS Roster vs. Brewers, Include Kershaw and Casparius

The Los Angeles Dodgers are set for another deep postseason push, officially naming their National League Championship Series roster ahead of the showdown against the Milwaukee Brewers. With the goal of back-to-back World Series titles in sight, the Dodgers are leaning on both veteran experience and emerging talent to navigate one of the toughest matchups in the playoffs.

Roster Overview: Minimal Changes, Maximum Continuity

For the most part, the Dodgers’ roster for the NLCS mirrors the team that dominated the Philadelphia Phillies in the NL Division Series, sweeping the top-seeded squad in four games. This continuity reflects both the trust that manager Dave Roberts has in his core group and the importance of keeping chemistry intact during high-stakes playoff baseball.

The only change on the active roster is the addition of right-handed pitcher Ben Casparius, replacing third catcher Dalton Rushing. The move is strategic, signaling confidence that Will Smith can handle the bulk of catching duties behind the plate, despite being limited earlier in the postseason due to a fracture in his right hand. Smith’s recovery and durability will be critical for Los Angeles, given the grind of the NLCS and the potential for extended series games.

Clayton Kershaw Returns to the Fold

Perhaps the most attention-grabbing roster note is the inclusion of veteran left-hander Clayton Kershaw, who will bring his wealth of postseason experience to the NLCS mound. Kershaw’s Game 3 outing against the Phillies in the NLDS was far from ideal, as he surrendered five runs (four earned) over two innings. Yet Roberts’ decision to include him demonstrates the value of Kershaw’s leadership and his ability to rise in critical moments.

Even in less-than-stellar outings, Kershaw brings more than just pitching. His presence provides younger arms with a calming veteran influence in the dugout, and his playoff experience is unmatched. In high-pressure situations like the NLCS, where every pitch can swing a game, the Dodgers clearly feel that Kershaw’s mental and emotional impact outweighs a single rough outing.

Depth and Flexibility: Keys to Dodgers’ Strategy

By replacing Rushing with Casparius, the Dodgers gain additional pitching depth, a critical asset against a team like the Brewers that relies on contact hitting and aggressive baserunning. Casparius, a promising right-hander, adds versatility to the bullpen and could provide crucial innings in long relief or matchup-driven situations.

Meanwhile, keeping Will Smith healthy and active ensures that the Dodgers retain a potent offensive and defensive presence behind the plate. Smith’s ability to handle the pitching staff effectively, manage the running game, and contribute offensively will be a pivotal factor over a potentially grueling series.

This roster combination also speaks to the Dodgers’ balance between youth and experience. While Kershaw and other veterans anchor the staff, players like Casparius represent the infusion of young talent that allows the team to withstand injuries, late-game fatigue, and the inevitable volatility of postseason baseball.

The Dodgers’ NLCS Challenge

The Brewers, a smaller-market team with a payroll near $130 million, have built a roster focused on analytics, depth, and player development. They have already upset higher-seeded teams in the playoffs, demonstrating they are capable of exploiting mistakes and maximizing their limited resources.

For the Dodgers, the NLCS will test more than just talent. The series will measure pitching depth, bullpen management, and in-game adaptability. With Kershaw available, Casparius ready to contribute, and Smith healthy, the Dodgers are presenting their strongest possible combination to counter Milwaukee’s strategy.

Manager Dave Roberts will likely rely on Kershaw in a high-leverage situation, perhaps as a starter in a critical game or as a multi-inning reliever to bridge gaps in the rotation. Casparius could also see action in matchup scenarios, particularly against left-handed hitters or in long relief to ease the workload of the bullpen.

Continuity and Confidence

Maintaining nearly the same roster that swept the Phillies allows the Dodgers to capitalize on momentum. Players already have shared success and familiarity with each other’s tendencies, which is invaluable in high-pressure postseason scenarios. The psychological advantage of continuity—especially when facing a well-prepared underdog like the Brewers—cannot be overstated.

By blending veteran leadership, young talent, and strategic depth, the Dodgers are signaling that they are prepared for both the mental and physical challenges of the NLCS. The decision to include Kershaw, despite his recent struggles, underscores a belief in the intangible benefits of experience when the stakes are at their highest.

Looking Ahead

As the Dodgers and Brewers gear up for the NLCS, attention will focus on how the pitching staff performs, how Will Smith manages the game behind the plate, and how quickly young pitchers like Casparius can adapt to playoff intensity. Every decision, from rotation placement to bullpen usage, will be magnified.

Ultimately, the Dodgers’ roster choices reflect a commitment to winning now. They have positioned themselves to take on Milwaukee with the combination of talent, depth, and experience needed to reach the World Series for a second consecutive year.

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