Date: October 4, 2025

Time: 6:38 PM EST

Venue: Citizens Bank Park, Philadelphia, PA

Moneyline: Los Angeles Dodgers (+101) at Philadelphia Phillies (-123)

A potential postseason preview is on tap in South Philadelphia as the Los Angeles Dodgers send their ace to the mound to face a resilient Philadelphia Phillies team in what promises to be a high-stakes showdown.

Pitching Matchup: Shohei Ohtani (RHP) vs. Cristopher Sánchez (LHP)

The marquee attraction is undoubtedly Shohei Ohtani, who takes the hill for the Dodgers. In this hypothetical 2025 season, Ohtani has been a dominant force on the mound, making Los Angeles a favorite nearly every time he pitches. His combination of high-velocity fastballs and devastating breaking pitches makes him a nightmare for any lineup. It’s rare to see a Dodgers team with Ohtani starting listed as a betting underdog, which speaks volumes about the respect oddsmakers have for the Phillies at home.

For the Phillies, left-hander Cristopher Sánchez gets the call. Sánchez has been a steady presence in a rotation that has weathered its share of storms this season. As search results from earlier in the year noted, the Phillies have dealt with significant pitching injuries, including a procedure for Zack Wheeler and an injury to Ranger Suárez. Sánchez’s ability to induce soft contact and control the running game will be critical against a deep and dangerous Dodgers lineup.

Dodgers Outlook (+101)

The Dodgers have navigated a season filled with their own injury hurdles. Key players like Mookie Betts, Will Smith, and Tommy Edman have all dealt with various ailments throughout 2025, according to reports. However, when Ohtani is pitching, the Dodgers have the ultimate equalizer. His ability to deliver a shutdown performance can mask any lineup inconsistencies. If the offense, which still features immense talent, can provide even a modest amount of run support, they are in a prime position to win. Getting them at plus-money odds feels like a gift, but the Phillies’ strength at home is a real factor.

Phillies Outlook (-123)

The Phillies are home favorites for a reason. Citizens Bank Park provides one of the most formidable home-field advantages in baseball, and their lineup is built to do damage. However, their 2025 campaign has been a war of attrition. Injury reports throughout the year have highlighted significant issues, with stars Bryce Harper (wrist) and Trea Turner (hamstring) both missing time. Furthermore, the bullpen took a major hit with the confirmation that hard-throwing lefty José Alvarado would not pitch again in 2025.

Despite the challenges, the Phillies have remained competitive. For them to win this game, they’ll need to ambush Ohtani early and get to the Dodgers’ bullpen. The pressure will be on Sánchez to outduel one of the game’s titans and keep the powerful Dodgers offense off-balance.

Prediction

This game presents a classic conflict: the ace on the road versus the tough team at home. The betting line favoring the Phillies (-123) is a clear nod to their prowess at Citizens Bank Park and the offensive power they possess, even with the injury concerns that have plagued them all season.

However, it is nearly impossible to bet against Shohei Ohtani when you are getting underdog value. He has the ability to single-handedly dominate a game and silence even the most raucous crowd. While the Phillies have proven their mettle time and again, they have been battered by injuries to key contributors on both sides of the ball. Facing an arm like Ohtani is a monumental task for a team at full strength, let alone one that may be patchwork. Take the value with the visitors.

The Pick: Los Angeles Dodgers (+101)****Sources:
Los Angeles Dodgers Injury Status – ESPN
Dodgers injuries and roster moves
Los Angeles Dodgers Injury Report and Status 2025 – CBSSports.com
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