The 2023 Los Angeles Dodgers are a ridiculously talented team, one which many – even non-Dodgers fans – consider among the best in franchise history and often compared to the historic 1955 Brooklyn Dodgers team.

But in addition to having several obvious future Hall of Famers on their roster – guys named Clayton Kershaw, Mookie Betts, and Freddie Freeman – they are also blessed to have several other exceptionally good players on their 2023 NLDS-bound roster that could bring them their first World Series trophy since the COVID-19-shortened 2020 season and the 1988, 1981, 1965, 1963, 1959, and 1955 full seasons.

But to get to that pie in the sky, it’s going to take great performances from guys other than those who will (eventually) be Cooperstown-bound, guys who played enormous roles in getting Dodgers manager Dave Roberts‘ team where they are today – both rookies and seasoned veterans.

In the simplest of terms, and in addition to the obvious phenomenal play of rookie outfielder James Outman, and rookie second baseman Miguel Vargas, Dodgers fans also witnessed excellent play from these Dodgers rookies this season:

• RHP Bobby Miller
• RHP Michael Grove
• RHP Gavin Stone
• RHP Andre Jackson
• RHP Nick Robertson
• OF Jonny DeLuca
• PH/DH Michael Busch

But here again, were it not for some Gold Glove-worthy defense, Silver Slugger-worthy offense, and Cy Young consideration-worthy pitching from 36-year-old outfielder/DH J.D. Martinez, 34-year-old right fielder Jason Heyward, 36-year-old left fielder David Peralta, 35-year-old right-hander Joe Kelly, and unquestionably that of re-acquired (on July 25) 32-year-old utility infielder/outfielder Kiké Hernández, Roberts’ team would probably be watching the 2023 postseason on television rather than being considered the frontrunners heading into it.

So, who will it be this postseason for the Dodgers?

Play Ball!

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