With Their Backs Against the Wall, Some Dodgers Chose to Stay Away from Optional Workout on Off Day

Will this approach work Wednesday night?

Several Dodgers chose to skip an optional workout day on Tuesday in preparation for their do-or-die Game 3 against the Diamondbacks Wednesday night. 

Though LA's entire roster opted into the series' first workout day on Sunday, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts explained the rationale for some members of the team staying away from Tuesday's workout — including himself.

"There were a lot of guys that wanted to stay away," Roberts said. "For some people they need to be there, they want to be there, and some guys I think it’s great they stay away. That’s why it’s optional. I think as much time as we spend together, some guys need to be away. And for me, I welcome that. There’s no cookie-cutter, one way to do things. And we had a lot of guys -- I think everyone showed up on Sunday. So [on Tuesday], for me, I feel it’s okay for them to be away if they need to."

While Roberts' insight might quell some fears, it'll be interesting to see if this approach pays off.

Arizona pummeled both of LA's starters in the first two games after they chased both Clayton Kershaw and Bobby Miller before either could record two innings. 

The Dodgers managed to limit the damage on Monday night to just four runs, but the bats went quiet once again with just two runs and plenty of regret. 

A potent lineup all season long, for whatever reason the Dodgers' hitters just can't get it done in the postseason for the second straight year. 

Hopefully some of the Dodgers getting away from baseball for a day helps them get back on track in a must-win game on Wednesday.