How to Master the Dodgers Roster in MLB The Show 17
If you’ve spent any time in the virtual dugout of MLB The Show 17, you know the Dodgers aren’t just a flashing logo – they’re a deep well of talent, quirks, and hidden gems. Whether you’re building a franchise mode powerhouse or grinding through Road to the Show, understanding which pieces fit together can shave a few runs off your opponent’s scorecard.
Quick Start: Core Players to Lock In
- Cody Bellinger (1B/CF) – A blend of power and speed that translates well in both batting and fielding ratings.
- Kenta Maeda (SP) – Consistent strikeout numbers and a respectable ground‑ball rate make him a reliable starter.
- Betts (RF) – His plate discipline and clutch hitting give you extra outs in tight situations.
- Walker Buehler (SP) – A rising ace with a high ceiling; invest early to reap long‑term rewards.
Depth That Makes a Difference
Beyond the headline names, the Dodgers have a roster peppered with role players who can swing momentum in your favor.
Middle‑Relief Movers
Look for pitchers with a low WHIP and a decent strikeout‑to‑walk ratio. Players like Ricky Nolasco and J.P. Cole excel at bridging the gap between the starter and the closer, especially when you need to preserve a slim lead.
Bench Bats
Spotlight the utility guys who can handle multiple positions without a severe dip in defensive rating. Chris Taylor offers a left‑handed bat and can slot into the outfield, second base, or even shortstop when injuries strike.
Building Chemistry: Why Lineup Order Matters
The Dodgers’ strength isn’t just individual talent; it’s how you arrange them. A typical setup might look like this:
- Lead‑off: Kyle Farmer – Speedy, gets on base, sets the table.
- Second: Betts – Contact hitter, moves the runner.
- Third: Bellinger – Power threat, ideal for driving runs home.
- Cleanup: Max Muncy – Heavy‑handed slugger, perfect for multi‑run innings.
Adjust based on your player’s specific ratings – if your Bellinger has a higher on‑base percentage than Betts, you might want to flip them.
Tips for Franchise Mode Longevity
- Scout Young Talent – The Dodgers farm system is rich. Prioritize scouting reports on players like Willie Calhoun and Gavin Lux early to secure bargains.
- Balance Payroll – While it’s tempting to splurge on top free agents, keep an eye on the luxury tax threshold. Trading a high‑salary reliever for a promising prospect can free up cash without hurting performance.
- Use the “Focus” Feature – Assign specific training focuses (e.g., “plate discipline” for hitters or “velocity” for pitchers) to accelerate growth where you need it most.
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
Even seasoned players trip over a few classic mistakes with the Dodgers:
Overreliance on Power. The team’s lineup boasts home runs, but neglecting contact hitters can leave you with too many strikeouts in close games.
Neglecting Defense. A flashy slugger with a low fielding rating can turn routine ground balls into extra bases for the opposition. Keep an eye on fielding percentages, especially for infielders.
Ignoring Pitch Count Management. Throwing Bellinger’s or Buehler’s starters too deep too often raises injury risk and fatigue penalties. Use the “Rest” option strategically.
Final Thought: Play to the Dodgers’ Strengths
At the end of the day, the Dodgers thrive when you leverage their blend of power, speed, and depth. Tweak the lineup, keep an eye on the farm system, and don’t forget the little details – a well‑timed pinch‑hit or a reliever with the right “clutch” rating can be the difference between a season‑ending playoff run and an early exit.
