Reference in Snell’s last outing against Cincinnati frames a recent opponent context that contributors on the Dodgers’ rotation used for scouting, though not directly playing in this NLDS clash.

Hernández homered against Cincinnati in the wild-card series to start LA’s offensive burst, and his later heroics kept the Dodgers pressing in the NLDS clash.

Reds were swept by Los Angeles in the Wild Card Series, highlighting LA's October depth and the leverage they can deploy in the later rounds. The result frames the Dodgers as the team to beat in the postseason lineup.

Reds were on the wrong end of Dodgers’ momentum after their wild-card series, a reminder of the big swing in playoff contrasts. Their post-season readiness underscores the difference in NL power balance as the Dodgers push their series edge.

Reds were Dodgers’ Wild Card foe; Rortvedt’s .500 WC performance highlighted Dodgers’ depth. The NLDS context adds pressure to Smith's return and the bench strength that LA can lean on in the series.