UPDATE: In a thrilling finish, the Los Angeles Dodgers rallied to a 5-3 victory over the Philadelphia Phillies in Game 1 of the National League Division Series on September 30, 2023. Teoscar Hernandez delivered a clutch three-run homer in the seventh inning, lifting the team and easing the pressure off star pitcher Shohei Ohtani, who struggled at the plate.
With the Dodgers trailing and Ohtani having struck out four times, Hernandez silenced a raucous Phillies crowd with an explosive opposite-field drive off pitcher Matt Strahm, turning a 3-2 deficit into a commanding 5-3 lead. Celebrating wildly as he rounded the bases, Hernandez energized the Dodgers, while Ohtani, finally able to exhale, joined the jubilation from the dugout.
Ohtani, making his first career playoff start, faced a rocky beginning after allowing a three-run innings in the second. However, he regained control, striking out nine batters over six innings and securing the win for the reigning World Series champions. His performance, despite his struggles at the plate, marked a historic achievement as he became the first player to strike out four times while also recording nine strikeouts as a pitcher in the same postseason game.
In a tense eighth inning, Dodgers reliever Alex Vesia showcased resilience, retiring pinch-hitter Edmundo Sosa with the bases loaded to maintain the lead. Roki Sasaki closed the game with his first career save, sealing a crucial win after the Dodgers dominated the Reds in the Wild Card Series earlier this week.
The atmosphere in Philadelphia was electric as fans rallied behind their team, especially after J.T. Realmuto’s two-run triple and Harrison Bader’s sacrifice fly propelled the Phillies to an early lead. Phillies starter Cristopher Sanchez initially dazzled, striking out Ohtani three times, which sent the crowd into a frenzy. However, the late-game collapse from the Phillies bullpen proved detrimental.
Looking ahead, Game 2 will take place on Monday, October 2, 2023, in Philadelphia. The Phillies will start Jesus Luzardo, who boasts a 15-7 record with a 3.92 ERA this season. The Dodgers are set to counter with two-time Cy Young Award winner Blake Snell.
As the Dodgers ride high from this exhilarating win, anticipation builds for the next matchup. Fans are eager to see if Hernandez can continue his hot streak, and whether Ohtani can bounce back at the plate. Stay tuned for more updates as this postseason series unfolds!
