UPDATE: In a thrilling turn of events, the Los Angeles Dodgers triumphed over the Philadelphia Phillies with a 5-3 victory in Game 1 of the National League Division Series on July 15, 2023. The game featured a dramatic seventh-inning comeback led by Teoscar Hernandez, who smashed a pivotal three-run homer that turned the tide for the reigning champions.
In a night filled with tension, Shohei Ohtani struggled at the plate, striking out four times, but ultimately secured the win as a pitcher. Ohtani’s performance on the mound was commendable, with nine strikeouts over six innings, overcoming a three-run deficit early in the game.
With the score tied at 2-2 in the seventh, Hernandez silenced a rowdy Phillies crowd with a powerful opposite-field drive off Matt Strahm, sending the ball deep into right field. His jubilant celebration around the bases was mirrored by Ohtani, who rose from the dugout to join his teammates in celebration as the Dodgers took a crucial lead.
“I was nervous coming into this game, but the team rallied together,” Ohtani said post-game.
Earlier, the Phillies had taken control with three runs in the third inning, thanks to J.T. Realmuto‘s two-run triple and Harrison Bader‘s sacrifice fly. However, the Dodgers, fresh off a dominant Wild Card Series performance, displayed resilience and determination.
As the game progressed, the tension mounted with the Phillies’ Cristopher Sanchez initially shining on the mound. He struck out Ohtani three times, showcasing his prowess as he filled in for the injured Zack Wheeler. Sanchez’s impressive start, however, unraveled in the sixth inning when Kike Hernandez delivered a two-run double that shifted momentum back to the Dodgers.
With the bases loaded in the eighth, Alex Vesia stepped up to secure the lead by retiring pinch-hitter Edmundo Sosa. The Dodgers’ bullpen proved effective, with Roki Sasaki recording his first career save in the ninth, solidifying the win.
Looking ahead, the Dodgers will face the Phillies again on Monday for Game 2 of the series. The Phillies are set to start Jesus Luzardo, who had an impressive season with a record of 15-7 and a 3.92 ERA. Meanwhile, the Dodgers will counter with two-time Cy Young Award winner Blake Snell, aiming to extend their lead in the series.
This victory underscores the Dodgers’ resilience and determination as they pursue another championship title, while the Phillies will look to regroup in front of their home crowd. Stay tuned for more updates as this high-stakes series unfolds.