The Los Angeles Dodgers have lost six consecutive games following the trade for pitcher Tarik Skubal, resulting in their second straight series sweep by the Chicago Cubs. This losing streak has significantly reduced their previously commanding 14-game lead.

Key injuries have hampered the Dodgers' pitching staff. Starter Blake Snell has been sidelined, pitching only three innings in 2026 after 61 innings in 2025. Tyler Glasnow is also out with a back injury, having thrown just 39.2 innings earlier this season. Additionally, Emmett Sheehan, who had a breakout year in 2025, has struggled in recent starts, forcing the team to rely on journeyman Eric Lauer.

In response to these challenges, the Dodgers made roster moves aimed at strengthening their team, a typical strategy for a club pursuing another World Series title. However, recent games have been difficult; for example, in one game, starter Justin Wrobleski gave up four home runs after an early 3-0 lead, leading to a 10-5 loss.

The Dodgers' struggles have been highlighted during games at venues such as Wrigley Field, where Chicago Cubs player Pete Crow-Armstrong was noted during a game against the Philadelphia Phillies earlier in the season.

Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Tarik Skubal was seen on the bench during the eighth inning of an MLB game against the Boston Red Sox at Dodger Stadium in early August.

The Dodgers, back-to-back World Series champions, face ongoing challenges as they attempt to maintain their lead and return to winning form.

Sources