Dodgers vs. Astros Game 2: Starting Pitchers, Lineups, And More

Rich Hill and the Dodgers will face Justin Verlander and the Astros in Game 2 of the World Series. Verlander was the MVP of the ALCS for a reason, as his stuff is absolutely nasty. However, Rich Hill has been equally dominant and the Dodgers’ lineup is healthy and producing.

The Dodgers faced Justin Verlander back in August when he was still with the Detroit Tigers. Verlander was lights out, going eight innings and giving up just one run on two hits. He also struck out nine Dodgers and walked just one. Not to take away from what Verlander was able to do against the Dodgers, but keep in mind that he did not face Cody Bellinger or Chris Taylor that day.

Regardless, Justin Verlander has arguably been the best pitcher of the 2017 postseason. In 24.2 innings of work (three starts and one relief appearance), Verlander has given up just four runs and has struck out 24 batters.

So how do you prepare against a guy like that? Here is what Dave Roberts had to say:

So Verlander is good, that’s pretty clear. But let’s not forget about how well Rich Hill has thrown the ball so far this postseason. In his two starts (9IP), Hill has given up three runs on six hits, with twelve strikeouts and four walks. Like the rest of the Dodger pitchers, he has not faced this lineup, which he can use to his advantage.

Below are the lineups that lineups that both teams will go with for Game 2 on Wednesday.

https://twitter.com/mlblineups/status/923287248304594944

Both lineups are pretty standard, with the addition of Chase Utley and Joc Pederson being the only surprise. Chase Utley is 2-6 in his career against Verlander, though those two hits came back in 2007. In Verlander’s start against the Dodgers in August, Utley went 0-3 with two strikeouts.

Joc Pederson has never faced Verlander, but this is what Dave Roberts had to say regarding the decision to start him over Andre Ethier:

Joc Pederson is starting in left field over Andre Ethier because of his ability to handle velocity, Dave Roberts said.

— Andy McCullough (@ByMcCullough) October 25, 2017

What are your predictions for Game 2 of the World Series? Let us know in the comments below!