The Keys to Beating the Padres

First of all, the keyword is “Don’t Panic.” OK, it’s two words, but you get my drift. In both games against the Padres, the Dodgers have played like a team that has had a number of off days and is not sharp and does not feel a sense of urgency. Actually, here are the four things the Dodgers need to do to beat the Padres.

The Stars Need to Come Out,

The Starting Pitching Needs to be a lot better;

The Defense needs to tighten up; and

The Team needs a leader to step up.

1. The Stars Need to Come Out

Mookie Betts had an OPS of .873 in 2022. That puts him at just below “superstar status.” His .269 BA is not very “staresque” and his .340 OB% is only number 5 on the team. As Mookie goes, so the team…