The Los Angeles Dodgers, sitting at the top of the NL West with a 78-61 record, are looking to bounce back after a two-game losing streak. Their recent struggles have seen them go 5-5 in the last ten games. The Dodgers are hoping to improve their road record of 33-35 as they visit PNC Park in Pittsburgh.
The Pittsburgh Pirates, currently fifth in the NL Central, come into this game with a record of 63-77. They have been playing well recently, winning their last two games and going 7-3 in their last ten outings. With a home record of 41-30, the Pirates will look to continue their strong performance at PNC Park.
Set against the backdrop of PNC Park with mild weather and light rain expected, this game is slated for Thursday, September 4, 2025, at 6:40 PM. The Dodgers are slightly favored on the moneyline at -120, while the Pirates sit at +102. Fans can catch the action live on SN LA.
Pirates vs Dodgers At a Glance
- Game Location: PNC Park in Pittsburgh, PA
- Los Angeles Dodgers Record: 78-61, 1st in NL West
- Pittsburgh Pirates Record: 63-77, 5th in NL Central
- Weather Forecast: Light rain with a mild breeze
- Game Odds: Dodgers -120, Pirates +102
- Television Broadcast: SN LA
The Pittsburgh Pirates Look to Conquer the Dodgers
Dodgers Team Overview
The Los Angeles Dodgers enter this contest with a strong pitching lineup, led by Blake Snell. Snell, boasting a 2.41 ERA and a WHIP of 1.37, has proven to be a challenging opponent for hitters. The Dodgers will rely heavily on his arm to contain the Pirates’ batting efforts.
Offensively, the Dodgers are known for their power at the plate, although recent games have shown a mix of performances. The team aims to capitalize on any opportunities against the Pirates’ pitching staff, which has been resilient in recent outings.
Key Dodgers Players to Watch
Freddie Freeman remains a pivotal player for the Dodgers, providing consistent offensive production. His ability to get on base and drive in runs is crucial for the Dodgers’ success.
Mookie Betts is another key figure, known for his speed and versatility on the field. Betts’ contributions in both hitting and defense will be vital as the Dodgers seek to outperform the Pirates.
Dodgers Pitching Strategy
Blake Snell will be a significant factor in this game, tasked with navigating a lineup that has shown flashes of power in recent games. His ability to mix pitches and keep hitters guessing will be essential for limiting the Pirates’ scoring opportunities.
The Dodgers bullpen, which has been reliable throughout the season, will also play a critical role in maintaining any lead they might establish. The depth and experience of their relievers give the Dodgers an edge in late-game scenarios.
Dodgers Team Betting Trends
- SU in Night Games: 46.9%
- SU in Away Games: 31.9%
- Runline as Favorite: 46.3%
- O/U as Underdog: 40.4%
The Dodgers have faced challenges in away games, but their runline performance when favored has been respectable. Their ability to manage over/under lines as underdogs remains a point of interest for bettors.
Dodgers Seek Redemption Against the Pirates
Team Overview: Pittsburgh Pirates
The Pittsburgh Pirates have been performing admirably this season, sitting in the top half of the league in several key offensive categories. They rank 6th in batting average at .252 and have a strong on-base percentage of .329, placing them 3rd in the league.
Their slugging percentage is also impressive at .437, earning them a 2nd place ranking, while their power is evident with 204 home runs, also ranking 2nd. These stats suggest a potent offense that can challenge any pitching staff.
Key Players to Watch
Paul Skenes, the Pirates’ starting pitcher, will be pivotal in this matchup. With an ERA of 2.05 and a WHIP of 0.95, Skenes has been a reliable force on the mound, holding a 9-9 win-loss record for the season.
Offensively, the Pirates have a balanced attack with multiple contributors. Their ability to hit for power and get on base consistently has made them a formidable lineup that can generate runs in various ways.
Pitching and Defense
The Pirates’ pitching staff has been solid, ranking 18th in ERA at 4.12, while their batting average against is an impressive .240, placing them 8th in the league. This combination of strong pitching and defense has kept them competitive in games.
Their bullpen has had some challenges, with 22 blown saves ranking them 8th, but they compensate with a high strikeout rate, having accumulated 1237 strikeouts, placing them 4th in the league.
Betting Trends
- SU Last 3 Games: 1-2 (33.3%)
- SU Last 5 Games: 1-4 (20.0%)
- SU All Games: 78-61 (56.1%)
- SU as Underdog: 7-9 (43.8%)
- Runline Last 3: 0-3 (0.0%)
- Runline All Games: 58-81 (41.7%)
- O/U Last 5: 1-4 (20.0%)
- O/U All Games: 68-71 (48.9%)
Pirates vs Dodgers Prediction: Dodgers -120
The Los Angeles Dodgers, despite their recent struggles, are a strong team with a record of 78-61 and currently leading the NL West. They are looking to bounce back from their two-game losing streak and have the edge in hitting with a ranking of 2nd in slugging percentage and home runs this season. Given their performance and the odds, the Dodgers at -120 present a valuable pick.
Blake Snell will start for the Dodgers, boasting a solid ERA of 2.41, which could be pivotal against the Pirates. While the Pirates’ ace, Paul Skenes, holds a formidable ERA of 2.05, the Dodgers’ offense is capable of turning the game in their favor. The Dodgers’ road record of 33-35 suggests they can compete away from home, especially with a lineup that can produce runs.
The Pirates have shown improvements at home, with a record of 41-30, and have won their last two games against the Dodgers. However, the Dodgers’ batting power and experience could be the deciding factors in overcoming the Pirates’ current form. The Pirates’ recent head-to-head success against the Dodgers might give them confidence, but the Dodgers’ need to solidify their standing in the division provides ample motivation.
Considering the Dodgers’ need to halt their losing streak and capitalize on their offensive strengths, they are poised to take this game. My projected final score is Dodgers 4 – Pirates 2.
- Pirates vs Dodgers Prediction: Dodgers -120
- Pirates vs Dodgers Score: Dodgers 4 – Pirates 2
