UPDATE: In a dramatic twist, the Los Angeles Dodgers clinched a 5-3 victory over the Philadelphia Phillies in Game 1 of the National League Division Series on October 7, 2023, despite a shaky performance from star pitcher Shohei Ohtani.
Ohtani, making his postseason debut on the mound, faltered in the second inning, allowing three runs that put the Dodgers in a precarious position. However, the team rallied back, showcasing their resilience in front of a hostile crowd at Citizens Bank Park.
In a pivotal moment, Kike Hernández delivered a two-run double in the sixth, narrowing the deficit to 3-2. Then, in a crucial seventh inning, Teoscar Hernández blasted a three-run homer that swung the game in the Dodgers’ favor, solidifying their lead at 5-3.
This unexpected victory not only gives the Dodgers an edge in the best-of-five series but also emphasizes their determination to defend their World Series title. With Blake Snell slated to pitch Game 2 on Monday, October 9, and Yoshinobu Yamamoto set for Game 3 on Wednesday, the Dodgers are poised to continue their momentum.
Ohtani’s struggles were unexpected; he struck out four times and lost control during the critical second inning. After walking Alec Bohm and allowing a single to Brandon Marsh, he surrendered a three-run homer to J.T. Realmuto, which left the Dodgers trailing.
“It wasn’t just about pitching for him,” said Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman. “It was about pitching really well.”
Despite Ohtani’s rocky start, the Dodgers’ pitching staff, including Tyler Glasnow, Alex Vesia, and Roki Sasaki, shut down the potent Phillies lineup for the remaining three innings, securing the win.
This victory is not just about the game; it’s a statement of intent from the Dodgers as they look to conquer one of their toughest rivals. The emotional rollercoaster of the game, marked by dramatic swings and critical plays, sets the stage for an exciting series ahead.
As the Dodgers aim to build on this momentum, fans are left eagerly anticipating the next match-up. Stay tuned for updates as this thrilling postseason continues to unfold!
