UPDATE: In a stunning finish, the Los Angeles Dodgers triumphed over the Philadelphia Phillies 2-1 on July 13, 2023, sealing their spot in the NL Championship Series. The dramatic victory was propelled by a pivotal error from reliever Orion Kerkering, who made a wild throw in the 11th inning, costing the Phillies the game and their postseason.
With two outs and the bases loaded, Kerkering mishandled a comebacker from Andy Pages, throwing past catcher J.T. Realmuto as pinch-runner Hyeseong Kim crossed home plate. The crowd of 50,563 at Dodger Stadium erupted in celebration, having spent the final innings on their feet in anticipation.
Earlier in the game, the Phillies had briefly taken the lead with a Nick Castellanos RBI double in the seventh, but the Dodgers fought back when Mookie Betts was walked with the bases loaded, forcing in the tying run. The tension reached its peak in the 11th inning as Tommy Edman and Max Muncy set the stage for Kerkering’s fateful moment.
This loss marks the third consecutive year the Phillies have exited the postseason in the Division Series. Meanwhile, the Dodgers, who are the defending World Series champions, have now advanced to the NLCS for the eighth time in the last 13 seasons.
“It’s a tough moment for Kerkering,” said Phillies manager Rob Thomson, who consoled the young pitcher after the game. “He’s a talented player, and we’ll rally around him.”
The Dodgers will now face either the Chicago Cubs or the Milwaukee Brewers in the Championship Series, with the potential for another thrilling showdown ahead. This victory marks the third walk-off win to clinch a playoff series in Dodgers history, a testament to their resilience and determination.
As fans celebrate this critical win, the focus now shifts to the impending Championship Series, where the Dodgers aim to continue their pursuit of another championship title. Stay tuned for updates as the postseason unfolds!
