The Los Angeles Dodgers face a critical moment in the National League Division Series after injuries to key players threaten their playoff run. Their starting shortstop and first baseman, both vital to the team's success, are doubtful for the next game due to significant injuries.

With their pitching rotation stretched thin, the Dodgers will rely on a bullpen game to stave off elimination against the San Diego Padres. Manager Dave Roberts is considering lineup adjustments as they prepare for a must-win situation.

The NLDS matchup between the San Diego Padres and Los Angeles Dodgers has been marked by intense rivalry and tension. Following a heated exchange and a controversial play, the Padres entered Game 3 with confidence, showcasing their ability to compete against the Dodgers.

In a dramatic second inning, San Diego capitalized on defensive errors by L.A., leading to a commanding 6-1 lead thanks to key contributions from players like Fernando Tatis Jr. and David Peralta. The Padres' relentless offense and solid pitching performance secured a 6-5 victory, putting them in a strong position in the series.

With the Padres demonstrating a fearless mentality and a strong team dynamic, they have emerged as serious contenders, aiming to clinch the series in Game 4.

The San Diego Padres edged the Los Angeles Dodgers 6-5 in Game 3 of the NLDS, taking a 2-1 series lead. The Padres exploded for six runs in the second inning, highlighted by Fernando Tatis Jr.'s two-run homer. Mookie Betts gave the Dodgers hope with a first-inning homer, and Teoscar Hernández's grand slam in the third brought the game within reach.

Despite the early fireworks, both teams' bullpens held strong, with the Padres' Robert Suarez securing the final outs. The series continues with Game 4 in San Diego, where the Padres can eliminate the Dodgers, while the latter must win to force a decisive Game 5.

The tension escalated during Game 2 of the NLDS between the San Diego Padres and Los Angeles Dodgers, leading to confrontations on and off the field. As the series shifts to San Diego, Padres management urged fans to maintain sportsmanship and respect towards the opposing team.

Incidents included a home run robbery by Jurickson Profar and heated exchanges between players, notably between Dodgers' Jack Flaherty and Padres' Manny Machado. The situation intensified with debris thrown from the stands, prompting concerns about fan behavior as the series continues.

The MLB postseason kicks off Saturday with the League Division Series, marking the first time the top two seeds in each league face off this October. The winners will progress to the League Championship Series, vying for a World Series spot.

Each series has its unique X-factor, highlighting key aspects that could influence outcomes. For instance, the Kansas City Royals' speed contrasts with the New York Yankees' slower approach, while the San Diego Padres' pitching velocity may give them an edge over the Los Angeles Dodgers.

The New York Mets and Philadelphia Phillies both rely heavily on fastballs, showcasing a strength-on-strength matchup, while the Detroit Tigers and Cleveland Guardians could see bullpens play a pivotal role due to their reliance on relief pitchers.