Live NLDS Game 3: Dodgers Lead Braves in Fifth Inning

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The Los Angeles Dodgers are currently leading the Atlanta Braves in Game 3 of the National League Division Series (NLDS), with the series tied at 1-1. The game, broadcast on FS1, features pitchers Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Chris Sale.

Early Game Highlights

Kiké Hernández and Freddie Freeman have hit home runs to give the Dodgers a lead in the fourth inning. Hernández connected for a two-run home run, marking his 17th postseason homer, while Freeman contributed with a solo shot, his 18th in playoff history.

Chris Sale, starting for the Braves, has allowed seven hits and three earned runs over 80 pitches, with six strikeouts.

First Four Innings Recap

Fourth inning: The Dodgers pulled ahead when Andy Pages hit a single, followed by Hernández’s two-run homer. Freeman’s solo homer extended the lead to 3-0. The inning ended with a flyout by Teoscar Hernández.

Mauricio Dubón’s highlight was a leaping catch that robbed Freeman of a potential home run earlier in the game.

Third inning: The innings saw Mookie Betts reaching on an error and landing at third after singles by Will Smith. However, the Dodgers stranded three runners as Rojas flied out.

Yamamoto remained strong, striking out multiple Braves players while allowing limited hits.

Second inning: Dodgers batters struggled when Sale struck out Miguel Rojas and Hernández, maintaining a scoreless frame. For the Braves, Harris managed a bunt single but was left stranded.

First inning: Yamamoto efficiently dispatched the Braves’ top batters, completing the inning in a straightforward manner. Sale matched with precise control, handling Dodgers’ early threats.

Analysis and Reactions

The Dodgers’ reliance on home runs for scoring has been a spotlight in the series, with all their runs emanating from such plays. Meanwhile, Shohei Ohtani, playing despite physical challenges, hasn’t been delivering his usual impact.

Miguel Rojas potentially faces his final postseason, reflecting emotionally on his career achievements with the Dodgers.

For Game 3, manager Dave Roberts has adjusted the lineup, moving Ohtani to the fifth batting spot, as the team looks to optimize their chances against Chris Sale.

Looking Ahead

The series presents a crucial juncture as the Dodgers aim to claim a lead in the best-of-five series. The upcoming games will be crucial in determining if they can secure a spot in the National League Championship Series.