In a decisive Game 5 of the NLDS, the Los Angeles Dodgers will send Yoshinobu Yamamoto to the mound against Yu Darvish of the San Diego Padres. This matchup marks a historic first postseason meeting between the two Japanese pitchers. The Dodgers, evaluating their pitching options, indicate that while Yamamoto will be central to their game plan, the bullpen also plays a crucial role in their strategy. As the series nears its climax, the Dodgers are also considering various changes to their pitching lineup after adjustments in earlier games. Despite lingering questions about other star pitchers, such as Shohei Ohtani, the team's focus remains on securing victory in this critical moment.