Week ahead for Dodgers

Monday through Wednesday: at San Diego Padres

Thursday through Sunday: at Houston Astros

The Dodgers lost sight of the Padres in the division race a long time ago. And this week’s series in San Diego won’t change that. But the three games still carry enormous playoff implications since the Dodgers need another successful trip if they hope to keep their wild-card dreams alive. Recent history is on the Dodgers’ side since they’ve won seven of 12 games this year against the now-slumping Padres, including four of the six played in San Diego. And they haven’t lost to Houston this season.

— Kevin Baxter