In a tense match at Dodger Stadium, the Los Angeles Dodgers edged out the Philadelphia Phillies 2-1 in 11 innings. This victory allowed the Dodgers to secure the National League Division Series 3-1. The game turned dramatically due to a crucial error by Phillies reliever Orion Kerkering.
Kerkering’s Critical Mistake
With two outs in the 11th inning and the bases loaded, Kerkering mishandled a comebacker from Andy Pages. Instead of making a routine throw to first base, Kerkering launched the ball past catcher J.T. Realmuto. This costly mistake allowed pinch-runner Hyeseong Kim to score the winning run.
Game Highlights
- Attendance: 50,563 fans filled Dodger Stadium for the dramatic finish.
- Nick Castellanos initially put the Phillies ahead with an RBI double in the seventh inning.
- Mookie Betts tied the game by walking with bases loaded, forcing in a run.
- Tommy Edman and Max Muncy contributed key hits to set up the winning run.
After Kerkering’s error, he showed visible disappointment, hanging his head as the crowd erupted in celebration. Phillies manager Rob Thomson provided support by comforting Kerkering in the dugout following the game.
Postseason History
This defeat marks the third consecutive year the Phillies have exited in the Division Series. Meanwhile, the Dodgers celebrate reaching the League Championship Series (LCS) for the eighth time in 13 seasons. Thursday’s win also marked the third walk-off victory for the Dodgers to clinch a playoff series, with the previous instance against the Phillies in the 1978 NLCS.
The Dodgers will now face either the Chicago Cubs or the Milwaukee Brewers in the LCS, continuing their pursuit of another championship. The drama and intensity of this matchup highlight the competitive spirit of postseason baseball.
