Los Angeles Dodgers starting pitcher Shohei Ohtani, second from right, waits to be taken out of the game throws to the plate during the fifth inning of a baseball game against the Los Angeles Angels, Wednesday, Aug. 13, 2025, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)
BREAKING: In a stunning turn of events, the Los Angeles Dodgers fell to the Los Angeles Angels 6-5 on Wednesday night, marking their fourth consecutive loss and dropping them to second place in the NL West. The Angels swept the season Freeway Series, a major upset as they sit below .500.
SHOHEI OHTANI pitched a season-high 4 1/3 innings, allowing four runs on five hits, while striking out seven, including two strikeouts against teammate Mike Trout. Despite a strong start, Ohtani’s performance faded as he struck out in his final three at-bats. The Dodgers were in a tight battle but ultimately succumbed to a crucial two-run single from Logan O’Hoppe in the eighth inning.
The loss is particularly impactful as the Dodgers now trail the San Diego Padres, who are set to arrive at Dodger Stadium on Friday for a critical weekend series. The Dodgers, defending World Series champions, risk jeopardizing their playoff position if they cannot turn their fortunes around.
Despite the setback, Mookie Betts and Will Smith shone for the Dodgers; Smith hit a two-run homer and Betts contributed two RBI singles. However, the beleaguered Dodgers’ bullpen struggled to maintain their lead, exacerbating their current slump.
With the Angels completing an improbable sweep over their crosstown rivals, the Dodgers must regroup quickly. The Angels have now won a franchise-record seven straight games against the Dodgers, a streak that has left fans and players alike in disbelief.
KEY MOMENT: The decisive play unfolded in the eighth inning when the Angels loaded the bases against Justin Wrobleski and Edgardo Henriquez. O’Hoppe’s clutch single not only turned the tide but also showcased the Angels’ resilience in a season marked by inconsistency.
KEY STAT: Ohtani has recorded 15 strikeouts over his last 8 1/3 innings, proving his dominance on the mound despite the loss.
Looking ahead, the Dodgers are expected to send Clayton Kershaw (6-2, 3.14 ERA) to the mound against the Padres on Friday, a pivotal game for the team’s season. Meanwhile, the Angels will start Yusei Kikuchi (6-7, 3.37) in West Sacramento.
The urgency for the Dodgers is palpable as they face a crucial weekend that could define their season. Fans will be eagerly watching to see if the team can bounce back and reclaim their position at the top of the division.
