Dodgers Grab Key Win in Game 3 of NLDS Against Braves

The Dodgers took on Game 3 of the National League Division Series knowing they needed more than just the long ball to secure a win over the Braves, especially with Chris Sale pitching for Atlanta. Yet, it was a combination of crucial home runs and stellar play by pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto that led to a 3-1 victory. The win moved the Dodgers ahead 2-1 in the best-of-five series.

Early Opportunities Missed

The Dodgers tried to score using multiple strategies early in the game, putting six runners on base in the first three innings without success. In the first inning, Mookie Betts reached base thanks to a weak groundball, and Teoscar Hernández benefited from a fielding error by Braves shortstop Ha-Seong Kim. But despite these opportunities, no runs were scored.

Manager Dave Roberts shuffled the lineup in preparation for Sale, placing Shohei Ohtani fifth in the batting order. With two outs and two runners on base, Ohtani faced a slider but ended up striking out.

In the next inning, Kyle Tucker singled to left, prompting Sale to check on him twice before he successfully stole second base. However, the inning closed with Kiké Hernández striking out, keeping the Dodgers from scoring.

Braves’ Defense Shines

In the third inning, Betts hit a double to continue pressuring the Braves. Freddie Freeman followed with a deep hit toward left field, only for Braves left fielder Mauricio Dubón to make a remarkable leaping catch at the wall, saving a run.

The Dodgers persisted, though. With two outs, Will Smith singled, Ohtani got first base from catcher interference, and Miguel Rojas lined out, ending the inning.

Home Run Power

Kiké Hernández struck first with a crucial home run. With Andy Pages on base after his first hit of the series, Hernández hit a changeup out of the park. Soon after, Freeman smashed an inside sinker over the right-field fence, out of Dubón’s reach.

Pitching Holds Strong

The game was also notable for the showdown between ace pitchers: Sale for the Braves and Yamamoto for the Dodgers. Yamamoto excelled, giving up only four hits and one run over seven innings. He started strong, retiring 10 of the first 11 batters, only allowing a bunt single by Michael Harris II.

The fifth inning was challenging, as Yamamoto loaded the bases with two singles and a walk. A groundout from Baldwin allowed one run to score, but Yamamoto quickly recovered. He forced Ronald Acuña Jr. to ground out, thanks to solid fielding by Rojas, who executed an accurate throw even while slipping.

The Braves didn’t manage another runner against Yamamoto. Tanner Scott provided a hitless eighth inning as a setup man. Edwin Díaz, closing for the first time since mid-August, allowed a double to Ozzie Albies but retired the next three batters to ensure the win.