In a commanding start to their postseason, the Los Angeles Dodgers triumphed over the Cincinnati Reds with a 10-5 victory in Game 1 of the National League Wild Card Series. This impressive win came after the Dodgers managed to turn around a lackluster regular season, ending with 93 wins, their lowest total in seven years.
Dodgers’ Regular Season Struggles
The Dodgers’ regular season was marked by inconsistency, compelling them to compete in the wild-card round for the first time since the MLB postseason format expanded. Despite their shaky performance, they entered the postseason with renewed confidence, winning 15 of their last 20 games.
Star Performers Step Up
In the playoff opener, Blake Snell shone in his Dodgers postseason debut, allowing only two runs while striking out nine batters over seven innings. His performance proved crucial in setting the tone for the match.
- Teoscar Hernandez and Shohei Ohtani each hit two home runs.
- Five Dodgers players recorded multiple hits.
- The team collectively chased Reds pitcher Hunter Greene after just three innings.
Key Moments in the Game
The scoring began early for L.A. when Ohtani launched a powerful line-drive home run at 117.7 mph. Later in the game, he hit another home run, becoming the first player in the Statcast era to accomplish home runs of over 450 feet and exceeding 115 mph in the same playoff game.
- The Dodgers scored four runs in the third inning, highlighted by Hernandez’s three-run homer.
- Tommy Edman followed up with another homer, contributing to the offense.
Despite leading 10-2, the Dodgers experienced a tense eighth inning when their bullpen struggled, allowing the Reds to cut the lead. Dodger Stadium was filled with anxious fans as the Reds threatened to rally but ultimately fell short.
Looking Ahead
The Dodgers are on the verge of closing out the series, with history favoring them. In the wild-card series’ previous editions, teams winning Game 1 have advanced 18 times out of 20. Mookie Betts emphasized the importance of maintaining focus as they prepare for the next game against the Reds.
As the Dodgers advance into the postseason, they hold onto the momentum generated in their recent victories, hoping to capitalize on their strong performance against the Reds.
