5 Reasons The Dodgers Won't Win The 2020 World Series

On September 16, the Los Angeles Dodgers became the first MLB team to punch their ticket to the 2020 MLB Playoffs. 

As of September 18, the Dodgers boast a record of 36-15, and seem to be on their way to an eighth consecutive NL West Division title.

However, despite their tremendous regular season success, Los Angeles has repeatedly failed to capture a World Series trophy since 1988.

Here are five reasons they will be unsuccessful once again in 2020.


1. Clayton Kershaw

It's no secret that Clayton Kershaw's regular season success has not translated to impressive postseason numbers during his illustrious career.

In 2,322 innings pitched, Kershaw currently holds an astounding regular season record of 174-76 with an ERA of 2.44.

Meanwhile, Kershaw has pitched 158.1 postseason innings to claim a record of 9-11 with a 4.43 ERA.

These numbers from the Dodgers' ace are no coincidence, as he has taken the mound in 32 playoff games and failed to impress more often than not.

Aside from simply "choking", the only possible justification is that fatigue has played a role in his postseason struggles. 

Perhaps due to a shortened 60-game regular season, 2020 will be the year that Kershaw finally delivers in the clutch moment.

But I'm not holding my breath.


2. Expanded Playoff Format

Typically, the MLB Playoffs feature 10 teams -- the six division winners are guaranteed a best-of-5 in the opening round, and the four Wild Card teams participate in a pair of "winner-take-all" games to round out the top eight.

For nearly a decade, the Dodgers have annually found themselves in perfect position to cruise through the postseason, yet repeatedly fail to get the job done.

In 2020, MLB has chosen to implement an expanded playoff format, allowing 16 teams into the mix.

Thus, a team that always struggles in postseason play will be forced to eliminate an additional opponent to bring home a World Series trophy this season.

Sorry, I don't buy it.


3. Globe Life Field

The 2020 World Series will be held at a neutral "bubble" location due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Thus, if the Dodgers are to somehow eliminate three National League teams, they will participate in this year's World Series at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas.

In theory, it shouldn't make a huge difference, as the American League team will have a similar "disadvantage".

Furthermore, the Dodgers bested the Rangers in two of three games at Globe Life Field this season (granted, the Rangers currently hold the worst record in the American League at 18-32).

However, this team has already slugged 95 home runs in 2020 to pace all 30 MLB teams.

Throwing a collection of power hitters into a pitcher's park for a best-of-7 to decide the championship seems risky.

Globe Life Field may only be 326 feet down the right field line, but it's 410 feet to center field.

That's a far cry from the friendly confines of Dodger Stadium.


4. Cody Bellinger

Do you remember when Cody Bellinger was named the 2019 National League MVP?

He boasted a batting average of .305, an on-base percentage of .406, and connected for 47 home runs and 115 RBIs in 2019.

Despite his efforts, the Dodgers were only good enough to lose in the NLDS.

And then there's 2020 Cody Bellinger.

This season, Bellinger is batting merely .218 with 10 home runs and 24 RBIs.

Is it possible that his teammates pick him up and propel the Dodgers to a World Series victory in 2020? Sure.

It's hard to count out seasoned pros such as offseason acquisition Mookie Betts.

Nonetheless, if Bellinger's bat doesn't come alive, it's hard to imagine the Dodgers' success continuing deep into October.


5. No Rings Since 1988

Is it fair to claim that a team won't win the World Series simply because they haven't done it lately? Maybe not.

However, we've seen this story before with the Dodgers' seven consecutive NL West Division titles.

The 2013 Los Angeles Dodgers -- bounced in Game 6 of the NLCS by the St. Louis Cardinals

The 2014 Los Angeles Dodgers -- bounced in Game 4 of the NLDS by the St. Louis Cardinals

The 2015 Los Angeles Dodgers -- bounced in Game 5 of the NLDS by the New York Mets

The 2016 Los Angeles Dodgers -- bounced in Game 6 of the NLCS by the Chicago Cubs

The 2017 Los Angeles Dodgers -- bounced in Game 7 of the World Series by the Houston Astros

The 2018 Los Angeles Dodgers -- bounced in Game 5 of the World Series by the Boston Red Sox

The 2019 Los Angeles Dodgers -- bounced in Game 5 of the NLDS by the Washington Nationals

So go ahead and prove me wrong.

I dare you.


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