Dodgers Shuffle Lineup for Phillies Series

The Los Angeles Dodgers’ 2026 season presses on with an NLDS rematch against the Philadelphia Phillies as Emmet Sheehan takes the mound in the series opener, while Kyle Tucker is rested for the start likely tied to a lefty starter for Philly. Tucker, who signed a four-year, $240 million deal, has struggled to find consistency, batting around .240 with limited power and little RBI contribution, prompting the lineup shuffle and his day off. Mookie Betts has slipped in the lineup, moving to the fifth spot as Freddie Freeman drops a position, with manager Dave Roberts praising Tucker’s accountability despite the downturn and commending the patient Dodgers fan base. The Dodgers’ roster moves also elevate Tommy Edman, who is noted for a timely third-slot placement and a strong performance for the club in crucial moments, including a game-tying homer in New York as context for his role this season. Betts has been one of the team’s highest-paid players, but his 2026 campaign has fallen short of recent standards, underscoring the pressure on the lineup to maximize output as the Dodgers keep winning at a strong pace. The overall tone from team coverage highlights resilience despite underperforming stars, with Edman’s versatility and Tucker’s accountability as key storylines shaping the Dodgers as they push toward the playoffs.