The Los Angeles Dodgers return to UNIQLO Field at Dodger Stadium on Sunday, August 23, 2026, for a regular-season home matchup against the Pittsburgh Pirates. First pitch is set for 4:10 PM ET, with Blake Snell climbing the hill for Los Angeles opposite Pittsburgh's Lake Bachar. This is a chance for the Dodgers to handle business at home against a Pirates club that has a long road ahead of it, and any win in August carries weight in the standings race.
Pitching Matchup: Blake Snell vs. Lake Bachar
Blake Snell is the story on the mound today. The left-hander is one of the most talented arms in the game when he is locked in, and a home start at Dodger Stadium gives him a favorable environment to work in. Snell's ability to miss bats with his curveball and command his fastball early in counts will be the central factor in how deep he goes into this game. The Dodgers need length from their starters, and Snell has the stuff to deliver it.
On the other side, Lake Bachar gets the nod for Pittsburgh. Bachar is a name Los Angeles hitters will be looking to attack early. The Dodgers' lineup has the depth to work counts, put the ball in play hard, and capitalize on any mistakes. How Bachar handles the heart of the Dodgers' order will define Pittsburgh's chances of keeping this game close.
Keys to Watch for the Dodgers
- Snell's command: When Snell is throwing strikes early, he is a different pitcher. Watch whether he is locating his breaking ball for called strikes in the first two innings — that sets the tone for the whole outing.
- Lineup production against an unfamiliar arm: Bachar does not carry a long track record against this Dodgers lineup. Los Angeles should look to make him work, drive up his pitch count, and get into the Pittsburgh bullpen as early as possible.
- Dodgers' bullpen readiness: Even in a favorable matchup, the Dodgers' relief corps needs to be ready to hold any lead Snell builds. Protecting a cushion late is non-negotiable in a pennant-race August.
- Home atmosphere: A Sunday afternoon crowd at UNIQLO Field at Dodger Stadium can energize this team. The Dodgers have consistently played well in front of their home fans, and that environment is an asset.
Prediction
The pitching edge belongs to the Dodgers today. Snell is the most experienced arm in this matchup, and Los Angeles has the lineup to put crooked numbers on the board against Bachar. Expect the Dodgers to build an early lead, let Snell work into the sixth or seventh, and close this one out with their bullpen. Dodgers win, 5-2.
Catch all the action on SportsNet LA or listen locally on Dodgers Radio AM570. Spanish-language coverage is available on KTNQ 1020.
