The Pittsburgh Pirates and Los Angeles Dodgers are set to open a three-game series on Friday, April 25, 2025, at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, California. First pitch is scheduled for 10:10 PM ET. This matchup features two teams with contrasting starts to the season, making it an intriguing National League showdown.
Team Overview:
Pittsburgh Pirates:
The Pirates enter the game with a 10-16 record, sitting at the bottom of the NL Central standings. Despite their struggles, Pittsburgh has shown flashes of competitiveness, particularly on the mound, where their pitching staff ranks 11th in MLB with a 3.87 ERA. Offensively, however, the Pirates have struggled, ranking 28th in slugging percentage (.341) and 23rd in home runs (20). Paul Skenes, the reigning NL Rookie of the Year, will take the mound for Pittsburgh. Skenes has a 2-2 record with a 3.68 ERA and 29 strikeouts over 22 innings pitched. His ability to limit the Dodgers’ potent lineup will be crucial for the Pirates to stay competitive.
Los Angeles Dodgers:
The Dodgers, with a 16-9 record, are third in the NL West and remain one of the league’s most dangerous teams. Despite being swept by the Chicago Cubs in their previous series, Los Angeles boasts the league’s top offense, leading MLB with 41 home runs and a .426 slugging percentage. Yoshinobu Yamamoto will start for the Dodgers, bringing a stellar 3-1 record and a 0.93 ERA into this matchup. Yamamoto has been dominant, holding opponents to a .178 batting average and averaging 11.8 strikeouts per nine innings. The Dodgers will look to bounce back and reassert their dominance at home.
Key Players to Watch:
Pittsburgh Pirates:
- Paul Skenes: The young right-hander has been a bright spot in Pittsburgh’s rotation, and his ability to keep the Dodgers’ lineup in check will be key.
- Bryan Reynolds: The outfielder leads the team in hits and RBIs, providing a consistent offensive presence.
- Ke’Bryan Hayes: The third baseman’s defensive skills and ability to generate extra-base hits make him a valuable asset.
Los Angeles Dodgers:
- Yoshinobu Yamamoto: The Japanese ace has been nearly unhittable this season, and his ability to dominate on the mound will set the tone for the Dodgers.
- Mookie Betts: The versatile star has been a key contributor at the plate and in the field, providing leadership and consistency.
- Freddie Freeman: The first baseman’s power and ability to drive in runs make him a constant threat in the Dodgers’ lineup.
Matchup Analysis:
Pitching:
The Dodgers hold a clear advantage on the mound, with Yamamoto’s dominance providing stability. Skenes has shown promise but will face a tough test against Los Angeles’ high-powered offense.
Offense:
Los Angeles’ lineup has been one of the most productive in MLB, while Pittsburgh has struggled to generate runs. The Dodgers’ ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities could be the difference.
Defense:
Both teams have been solid defensively, but the Dodgers’ pitching staff has helped limit mistakes. The Pirates will need to support Skenes with strong defensive play to stay competitive.
Game Odds
Pittsburgh Pirates 7
Los Angeles Dodgers – 218
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Thursday, April 24, 2025
