NL playoff race: key concerns and X-factors for October

In the National League playoff race, the Los Angeles Dodgers hold a commanding 5.5-game lead in the NL West, but their starting pitching depth is under scrutiny. The health of key pitchers Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Tyler Glasnow is critical as they aim to secure a top seed and a first-round bye. Their performance in the coming weeks will significantly impact the Dodgers' postseason strategy and rotation setup. Meanwhile, the San Diego Padres are positioned in the first wild-card spot, bolstered by a strong offensive showing. However, the return of Yu Darvish, who has been on the restricted list, is pivotal for their chances of competing for the division title or maintaining their wild-card position. His previous performance with a 3.20 ERA before his absence highlights his importance to the team. The Arizona Diamondbacks, currently in the second wild-card spot, face challenges with their starting rotation, which has struggled recently. Key pitchers like Zac Gallen and Merrill Kelly have posted high ERAs, and the absence of first baseman Christian Walker due to injury has further hampered their offensive capabilities. The team needs these players to regain form to stay competitive. As the regular season approaches its conclusion, the performance of these teams' key players will be crucial in determining their playoff fates. The Dodgers, Padres, and Diamondbacks must navigate health concerns and performance issues to secure their postseason aspirations.