Oct 6, 2026 6:00 PM
Updated Oct 6, 2026 9:39 PM

Mookie Betts believes the Los Angeles Dodgers are putting themselves in a position to score but need to capitalize.

The Los Angeles Dodgers suffered a 3-2 loss to the Atlanta Braves in Game 2 of the National League Division Series, leaving the series tied at one game apiece as the matchup shifts to Atlanta.

Following the loss, Mookie Betts acknowledged that the Dodgers need to get their offense going, but he did not believe there was an obvious adjustment that would immediately solve their struggles.

Los Angeles created several opportunities throughout the game but could not consistently turn those chances into runs. For Betts, postseason baseball can ultimately come down to delivering in the biggest moments.

The Dodgers had those opportunities in Game 2. They simply were unable to capitalize on enough of them.

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Atlanta continues to make things difficult

Betts credited Atlanta's pitching staff for making life difficult for the Dodgers' lineup.

The Braves entered the series with a strong pitching staff, and the opening two games have reinforced the challenge facing Los Angeles. Betts believes the Dodgers have done a good job preparing for the pitching they have encountered, but preparation can only take a team so far once the game begins.

At some point, hitters have to execute when their opportunities arrive.

The Dodgers were able to put themselves in position to score during Game 2, but Atlanta repeatedly prevented those situations from becoming larger innings. That kept the game close and ultimately allowed the Braves to secure the victory.

Dodgers must keep creating opportunities

Rather than radically changing their approach, Betts believes the Dodgers need to continue giving themselves opportunities.

The veteran outfielder does not view the team's offensive struggles as a matter of insufficient preparation. The Dodgers enter games with a clear understanding of what they want to accomplish at the plate, but baseball does not always reward the correct approach immediately.

That was evident in Game 2.

Los Angeles had chances to change the game but failed to produce the necessary hit. Betts believes the answer is to continue creating those situations rather than becoming frustrated by the missed opportunities.

If the Dodgers consistently put themselves in position to score, eventually they expect the offense to break through.

Sale presents another challenge

The Dodgers will face another difficult pitching matchup in Game 3 with Chris Sale expected to take the mound for Atlanta.

Betts recognizes the challenge that comes with facing Sale, just as the Dodgers faced a difficult assignment in Game 2. With the series now tied, Betts understands that there will not be an easy matchup moving forward.

The Dodgers did not expect to cruise through the NLDS without adversity. Now, with the series shifting to Atlanta, their focus turns toward capitalizing on the opportunities they create and finding a way to generate more offense against another formidable pitcher.

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