Albert Pujols in lineup for Dodgers in Game 1 of NLCS

There are lot of changes in the Dodgers lineup compared to Game 5 of the NLDS.

The most notable switch in the lineup is having Albert Pujols at first base in replacement of Cody Bellinger. It makes sense, as lefty Max Fried is starting for the Braves. We’ll likely see Bellinger replace Pujols later in the game, but it does suck just a tad for Bellinger to not get the start.

What’s your reward for winning Game 5? El bencho!

Again, the move makes total sense.

AJ Pollock returns to the lineup after not starting the last two games of the NLDS. He replaces Gavin Lux in the lineup. With Pollock in left field, Chris Taylor slides over to center field.

Position changes aside, there are also some changes in the batting order. Trea Turner and Corey Seager have swapped spots again, as Turner is now hitting second with Seager hitting third.

Will Smith and Justin Turner also swapped spots, as Smith is hitting fifth with Turner hitting fourth.

With the Dodgers using an opener yet again, we’ll likely see a pinch-hitter before seeing a pitcher hit for LA. In Game 5, Julio Urias only had one at-bat. It was the only at-bat by a Dodgers pitcher for the entire game.

Dodgers lineup

1. Mookie Betts, RF
2. Trea Turner, 2B
3. Corey Seager, SS
4. Justin Turner, 3B
5. Will Smith, C
6. Albert Pujols, 1B
7. AJ Pollock, LF
8. Chris Taylor, CF
9. Corey Knebel, P

Braves lineup

1. Eddie Rosario, LF
2. Freddie Freeman, 1B
3. Ozzie Albies, 2B
4. Austin Riley, 3B
5. Joc Pederson, RF
6. Adam Duvall, CF
7. Travis d’Arnaud, C
8. Dansby Swanson, SS
9. Max Fried, P