The May 20, 2025 showdown between the Arizona Diamondbacks and Los Angeles Dodgers at Dodger Stadium promises high stakes and fireworks in a National League West clash between two postseason contenders trending in different directions. The Dodgers, despite owning a strong 29–18 record, enter this game needing a statement win after a humbling three-game sweep at the hands of the Los Angeles Angels. With injuries depleting their starting rotation—Tyler Glasnow, Blake Snell, and Roki Sasaki all sidelined—the pressure falls on less proven arms and an offense that, while potent, has recently lacked its usual spark. Los Angeles will send Landon Knack to the mound, a young right-hander with a 2–1 record and a 5.89 ERA who has struggled to establish consistency but has shown flashes of potential. The good news for the Dodgers is the return of Teoscar Hernández, who rejoins the lineup after leading the league with 34 RBIs and batting .315 before his injury. Offensively, the Dodgers still average 5.36 runs per game, good for third in MLB, and their lineup remains one of the most feared with Mookie Betts, Freddie Freeman, and Shohei Ohtani anchoring the top half. Defensively, however, they’ve been less dominant, ranking 13th in runs allowed per game at 4.14, a number that could be further tested by Arizona’s surging bats.

The Diamondbacks arrive at Chavez Ravine with a 24–22 record and building confidence, having won their last two series and flexing offensive muscle along the way. Arizona has scored at least six runs in four of their last five games, including a resounding 8–0 shutout of Colorado in their most recent outing. Brandon Pfaadt will get the start, and he has been arguably their most consistent pitcher, holding a 6–3 record and 3.73 ERA. More importantly, Pfaadt has recent history on his side—he struck out 10 Dodgers the last time he faced them and has a track record of performing well against L.A.‘s lineup. The D-backs have been excellent against the spread of late, going 5–2 in their last seven games, and the total has gone over in four of their last six, highlighting the offensive spike they’ve enjoyed in recent weeks. Arizona will look to press this advantage against a banged-up Dodgers staff, hoping to get to Knack early and force manager Dave Roberts to dig deep into an already overworked bullpen. Given the potent lineups on both sides and question marks in the Dodgers’ rotation, this game has the potential to be high scoring, especially if Pfaadt’s command falters and Los Angeles’s core hitters rediscover their rhythm. While the Dodgers are still slight favorites due to their record and home-field advantage, the Diamondbacks’ recent form, pitching advantage, and growing offensive confidence make this matchup closer than the standings suggest. Expect strategic bullpen maneuvers, aggressive baserunning, and high-leverage moments early, as both teams look to gain ground in a division where every game is starting to matter. Whether it’s a rebound night for the Dodgers or a signature road win for Arizona, this contest is sure to deliver playoff-caliber intensity.