We're 13 games into the season, and the Dodgers lead the National League in runs scored and walks. While their improved power helps, the .393 on-base percentage is fueling the offense. Here's a comparison of the 2008 lineup and 2009 lineup in terms of plate discipline through the first 13 games:
| 2008 Starters | BB/PA | 2009 Starters | BB/PA |
| Martin | 7/54 | Martin | 8/50 |
| Loney | 6/55 | Loney | 7/56 |
| Kent | 3/49 | Hudson | 8/60 |
| Furcal | 9/60 | Furcal | 4/55 |
| Dewitt | 7/51 | Blake | 5/47 |
| Ethier | 4/57 | Manny | 14/57 |
| Jones | 6/50 | Kemp | 5/53 |
| Kemp | 0/43 | Ethier | 9/59 |
| Pierre | 1/36 | Pierre | 1/9 |
| Totals | 43/455, 9.4% | Totals | 61/446, 13.7% |
In the early goings of 2008 the aforementioned Dodgers walked in 9.4% of their plate appearances. This year's lineup has improved on that figure by more than 4%, with a 13.7% mark. If the Dodgers can keep up their improved plate discipline they might walk their way to an NL West Title.