2026 Playoff predictions, roster/rotation configuration etc.

[jay87shot]

With yesterday being win 90, I think it is safe to say we are locked into a playoff spot. Hopefully we can continue to play well and get the #1 seed and further increase our World Series odds. We are currently 1.5 games ahead of the Dodgers and 4.5 ahead of the Braves for the 1st seed. The Cubs are 9 games back with 16 to play so I don't think me saying that we pretty much have the division wrapped up is going to catch an issue. 

1) The playoff rotation behind Misi and Henderson is probably the biggest question mark at this point.

2) The last couple bullpen spots also are up for debate. Which current pitcher gets the chop from the playoff roster.

3) Setting up the rotation for the playoffs, hopefully we just keep in 1st and get the bye so Murph doesn't have to manipulate Misi or Henderson to much. That being said it would be nice to give each guy a little extra rest/ease there load knowing both are young and going to be asked alot in October.

4) Batting rotations, this hasn't really been an issue as Murph has use Joey, Pratt, and Hamilton well at SS/3B and Lara, Mitchell, and Sal in CF/RF. 

5) Preferred opponents or relevant matchup thoughts

Anything else to discuss? 

[jay87shot]

1) I think the rotation is likely Misi, Henderson, Bullpen game (assuming Misi and Henderson don't go short), May.

I could see Drohan, Gasser, or Harrison putting together a couple good starts and being the 4th starter in place of the bullpen game. Obviously how game 1 and 2 go would have a big part in who pitches game 3/4 as well.

2-4)I really don't have any worries or concerns on any of these points, we are deep enough from a roster stand point that the last pitching spot hopefully would matter much so whomever is throwing the worst will likely just be the easiest guy to leave off. 

5) I always prefer to play and beat the Cubs but they are dangerous especially if they can get something out of there bullpen. I don't like how we have played the Padres and Braves, they are scary with the bullpens and quality vets but I think both have enough rotation questions that we could win. The Phillies or D-backs aren't really a concern even though the Phillies have the roster to make a run. Then obviously there is the Dodgers the Yamamoto, Skubal, Snell, and Glasnow rotation is just daunting, after that I think we matchup well. Our small ball approach is what we need to utilize to beat that rotation and we have played the Dodgers well except for the playoff sweep last year.