The Los Angeles Dodgers had the best team in the MLB last season.
They won 111 games and had a star-studded roster full of former league MVPs.
So when their manager Dave Roberts guaranteed they would win the World Series, that should not have come as a surprise.
Yet, they could not even make it out of their first playoff series.
The Dodgers lost 3-1 to the San Diego Padres in the NLDS and got sent home way before they should have.
Now with a lesser roster this upcoming season, Roberts is not going to make another pre-season guarantee.
#Dodgers manager Dave Roberts is not going as far as making another World Series guarantee. But he is very confident in this year's team.
For Dave's full appearance: https://t.co/9vZJitAYKi pic.twitter.com/6meRLdIBtd
— Dan Patrick Show (@dpshow) February 28, 2023
The Dodgers lost Trea Turner, Justin Turner, and Cody Bellinger in free agency.
Also, they will not have starting pitcher Walker Buehler for the whole season.
Then, they just lost shortstop Gavin Lux to a torn ACL in spring training.
Even without those players, the Dodgers still have a very good team.
They should once again be on a shortlist of World Series teams.
But, one of their toughest competitors will be a team in their division, the San Diego Padres.
San Diego might have the best team in baseball.
They will welcome Fernando Tatis Jr. back at the end of April and they added Xander Bogaerts in free agency.
San Diego is set up with their best chance to win the NL West since 2006.
The National League will be very competitive this year, and maybe the Dodgers will benefit from not having added pressure.
NEXT: Gavin Lux Shares Statement After His Serious Injury
