Tough choices loom for Dodgers’ NLDS roster

With Game 1 of the National League Division Series in Washington on Friday at Nationals Park, the Dodgers have some tough decisions to make as they cut down a 40-man roster to 25 spots. Here’s how the playoff roster is shaping up and an educated guess at the final result.

Infielders: Adrian Gonzalez, Chase Utley, Corey Seager, Justin Turner, Howie Kendrick, Charlie Culberson

The first four players have gone wire-to-wire as regular starters in the infield, except for Utley, who is routinely replaced by Kendrick against left-handed starters. Culberson is the only uncertain pick here, as Enrique Hernandez could also give the team that much-needed right-handed bat in a utility role.

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Hernandez has seen plenty of time against left-handed starters this season and is a possibility, especially considering he can also play the outfield, unlike Culberson. Leaving Hernandez off the roster would leave the Dodgers without an easy answer in center field against Gio Gonzalez.

Game Date Time Matchup TV Gm 1 Oct. 7 5:30 p.m. LAD @ WSH FS1 Gm 2 Oct. 8 4 p.m. LAD @ WSH FS1 Gm 3 Oct. 10 TBD WAS @ LAD FS1 / MLBN *Gm 4 Oct. 11 TBD WAS @ LAD FS1 *Gm 5 Oct. 13 TBD LAD @ WSH FS1 *- If necessary | All times listed ETShop for postseason gear: Dodgers | Nationals • Complete Postseason coverage

On the other hand, Culberson has been stronger on a rate basis this season and is swinging the hotter bat, going 9-for-24 and slugging .542 in September and October. And that’s not to mention the division-clinching home run he hit last Sunday. Meanwhile, Hernandez put up a .586 OPS in September and October and has struggled with chasing pitches.

Outfielders: Josh Reddick, Joc Pederson, Yasiel Puig, Andrew Toles, Andre …

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