Dodgers Triumph Over Phillies in Playoff Opener
PHILADELPHIA – The Los Angeles Dodgers secured a 5-3 victory over the Philadelphia Phillies in Game 1 of the National League Division Series on Saturday. A key home run in the seventh inning by Teoscar Hernández turned the tide after a rocky start for Shohei Ohtani.
Ohtani, the celebrated player, struggled at the plate early, striking out four times. However, Hernández’s three-run homer off Phillies pitcher Matt Strahm brought the Dodgers ahead.
Ohtani also pitched strongly, overcoming a difficult second inning to finish with nine strikeouts over six innings.
The Phillies took an early lead with three runs in the third inning, but their offense quieted down afterward. Key players like Trea Turner and Bryce Harper were unable to produce runs.
Alex Vesia made a critical relief appearance, getting the final out in the eighth inning with the bases loaded. Roki Sasaki closed out the game in the ninth, earning his first career save.
Looking ahead, the Phillies will start Jesús Luzardo in Game 2 on Monday, while the Dodgers are expected to counter with Blake Snell.
