Dodgers Take Lead in NLDS Game 3 Against Braves

Yamamoto vs. Sale: A Strong Start

In Game 3 of the National League Division Series, the Los Angeles Dodgers faced the Atlanta Braves with both teams having won a game. Yoshinobu Yamamoto represented the Dodgers, while Chris Sale took the mound for the Braves. These two pitchers displayed strong performances early in the game.

Dodgers Strike First

The Dodgers took the lead in the fourth inning. Andy Pages started with a single, leading to a two-run homer by Kiké Hernández. This shot marked his 17th career postseason home run. Afterward, Mookie Betts grounded out, but Freddie Freeman hit a solo home run, bringing the score to 3-0 in favor of the Dodgers. All of the Dodgers’ runs in this series have come from home runs.

“I was going to come to you in September and say, why don’t you hit me seventh?”

This was Shohei Ohtani’s lighthearted response when informed of his new lineup position. Moving to fifth, Ohtani looked to contribute against the Braves’ ace, Chris Sale.

Game Progress

In the bottom of the fourth, Braves star Ronald Acuña Jr. grounded out, and Matt Olson singled for their second hit. However, Yamamoto quickly regained control. He struck out Ozzie Albies again, and Michael Harris II grounded out, ending the inning without conceding runs.

Defensive Highlight

Mauricio Dubón delivered a spectacular defensive play. In the third inning, he made a leaping catch to deny Freeman a two-run homer, maintaining a scoreless game until the Dodgers broke through later.

Pitching Breakdown

• Yoshinobu Yamamoto: Four strikeouts, one hit allowed over two innings.
• Chris Sale: Six strikeouts, three earned runs, and seven hits over four innings.

Pre-game Analysis and Close Calls

Dodgers’ reliance on home runs has been evident, scoring all postseason runs this way. Returning to Atlanta, the Dodgers needed to capitalize on opportunities beyond the long ball. Closing out innings without allowing runs proved crucial in maintaining momentum through tight situations.

Manager’s Strategy

Dave Roberts considered lineup changes to maximize successes in subsequent games. Ohtani’s drop in the order highlights strategic shifts aimed at enhancing overall performance.

Broadcast Details

Game 3 aired on FS1, with live radio coverage on 570 AM and 1020 AM in Los Angeles. As the series continues, fans eagerly anticipate the next games scheduled at 3 PM on subsequent days, ensuring the intensity continues for baseball enthusiasts.