The Los Angeles Dodgers secured their status as the team with the best record in Major League Baseball this season, thanks to a loss by the Philadelphia Phillies. With this achievement, they gain home-field advantage throughout the playoffs for the fourth time since 2017.
In a dominant display, the Dodgers defeated the Colorado Rockies 13-2 in their penultimate regular-season game. Manager Dave Roberts praised the team’s effort, calling it a “clinic” and highlighting the importance of their final preparations before the postseason.
Solid Performance from Yamamoto
Yoshinobu Yamamoto, returning from a shoulder injury, pitched five strong innings, allowing just two runs. This marked his longest outing since returning to the mound, and he finished his rookie season with a 7-2 record and a 3.00 ERA over 18 starts.
“I learned a lot, I experienced great things… I will do my best to contribute,” Yamamoto said through an interpreter, expressing gratitude for his teammates’ support.
Ohtani’s Triple Crown Chase
Shohei Ohtani continued his pursuit of the National League triple crown, going 2-for-5 with his 58th stolen base. He finished the day with a .310 batting average, just four points behind Luis Arraez, who sat out Saturday’s game.
Roberts acknowledged the challenge ahead for Ohtani, stating, “Hopefully [Arraez] plays tomorrow and goes 0-fer, and Shohei has another 4-hit game.” Ohtani would need a strong performance in the final game to potentially take the batting title.
Injury Update
In the same game, center fielder Kevin Kiermaier dislocated his left ring finger while attempting to stretch a single into a double. He was able to leave the game and had the finger reset but is now listed as day-to-day.
As the Dodgers prepare for the playoffs, they aim to solidify their pitching rotation and maintain their focus in the final game of the regular season.
You Might Be Interested In:
