#los_angeles_dodgers

MLB to Question Dodgers Doctor Over Conor McGregor PED Report Major League Baseball (MLB) has initiated an investigation into Dr. Neal ElAttrache, the team doctor for the Los Angeles Dodgers and the NFL’s Los Angeles Rams, following reports that he referred UFC star Conor McGregor to a specialist who prescribed banned substances during McGregor’s recovery from a 2021 leg injury. The New York Times reported that after Dr. ElAttrache oversaw surgery for McGregor’s fractured lower left leg, he arranged for the athlete to consult a specialist who recommended the use of performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs). In a statement to the newspaper, ElAttrache clarified that he was not involved in the evaluation or prescription process, stating he had no role in the specialist’s recommendations. McGregor sustained a severe injury in a 2021 UFC bout, breaking both bones in his left leg. According to the Times, Dr. ElAttrache referred McGregor to a specialist, whose treatment plan included the use of substances prohibited under MLB’s drug policies. ElAttrache emphasized that the “expert opinions” he received were intended to optimize McGregor’s recovery, ensuring “solid union and healing of his fractures.” He reiterated that he did not participate in the evaluation or medication decisions, though the referral has prompted scrutiny. MLB’s investigation is proceeding as a matter of due diligence, with the league stating it is not aware of any allegations involving ElAttrache’s potential misconduct with baseball players. However, the probe underscores the league’s commitment to enforcing its anti-doping policies, even as it acknowledges the complexities of cross-sport medical practices.#new_york_times #conor_mcgregor #mlb #los_angeles_dodgers #dr_neal_elattrache

Tyler Callihan's Heroic Performance Propels Pirates to Victory Over Dodgers The Pittsburgh Pirates secured a dramatic 9-8 win over the Los Angeles Dodgers in a thrilling matchup at PNC Park, thanks to a standout performance from rookie Tyler Callihan. Callihan, who had already hit his first Major League Baseball home run earlier in the game against Shohei Ohtani, delivered another unforgettable moment by launching a three-run shot in the bottom of the eighth inning. The home run flipped the game in the Pirates’ favor, ending a four-game losing streak and showcasing Callihan’s emerging talent. Callihan’s heroics began in the fourth inning when he launched a solo home run off Ohtani, marking his first career MLB hit. The game took a pivotal turn in the seventh when Brandon Lowe doubled to plate two runs, extending the Pirates’ lead to 6-3 and prompting the Dodgers to pull Ohtani from the mound. Despite Oht, who entered the game with a sparkling 0.74 ERA, the Pirates continued to chip away, with Callihan adding a second home run in the eighth inning. The game remained tense until the ninth, where Gregory Soto closed it out, though Ohtani managed to hit a home run in the final frame. The Pirates’ offensive resurgence came at a critical time. Entering the game, Pittsburgh had struggled to score runs, averaging just 2.75 per contest over the previous four games. The team’s struggles were compounded by the absence of Oneil Cruz, who was sidelined with a hand injury. Cruz’s absence created an opportunity for Callihan, who started in right field and batted seventh. “I don’t know if anybody could fill his void. He’s spectacular,” Callihan said, acknowledging Cruz’s impact while expressing confidence in the team’s ability to adapt. Callihan’s performance was a testament to his resilience.#shohei_ohtani #los_angeles_dodgers #pittsburgh_pirates #pnc_park #tyler_callihan

Jonathan Hernandez: Dodgers’ High-Velocity Bullpen Bet The Los Angeles Dodgers officially signed right-handed reliever Jonathan Hernandez to a major league contract, marking a strategic move to bolster their bullpen with a high-velocity arm. The 29-year-old righty joined the team after opting out of a minor league deal with the Philadelphia Phillies. The decision reflects a calculated risk by the Dodgers’ front office, aiming to add an explosive reliever to a bullpen that has faced significant strain throughout the season. Hernandez’s potential to thrive under the Dodgers’ development system has positioned him as a key piece in their plans for the upcoming stretch run. Hernandez’s journey to the majors is deeply intertwined with his father, Fernando Hernández, a former San Diego Padres minor league pitcher who spent 14 years chasing his baseball dreams across multiple leagues. Born in Memphis, Tennessee, Jonathan grew up following his father’s career, which took him from the United States to South Korea, Taiwan, and Mexico. Fernando’s brief Major League appearances with the Detroit Tigers in 1997 and his success as an ace in the KBO League laid the foundation for Jonathan’s own path. However, the young Hernandez initially aspired to be a shortstop, a choice his father gently redirected when he recognized his son’s physical potential. By age 12, Jonathan was pitching, setting the stage for a career that would eventually surpass his father’s achievements. Hernandez’s rise to prominence began with the Texas Rangers, where he emerged as a standout reliever. In 2020, he became a shutdown force in the late innings, posting a 2.90 ERA over 31 frames. His arsenal included a high-velocity sinker that routinely reached 98–99 mph and a sharp slider that generated strikeouts.#los_angeles_dodgers #philadelphia_phillies #texas_rangers #jonathan_hernandez #fernando_hernandez

Phillies Face Shohei Ohtani and Dodgers in Apple TV Exclusive The Philadelphia Phillies will take on the Los Angeles Dodgers this weekend in a matchup featuring Shohei Ohtani, but the games will not be broadcast on traditional network television. Instead, Friday night’s contest will stream exclusively on Apple TV as part of the tech giant’s Friday Night Baseball doubleheader, which begins at 10:15 p.m. This marks the fifth season of Apple TV’s seven-year, $595 million deal with Major League Baseball, a partnership that has seen the streaming service’s monthly cost rise from $6.99 to $12.99. Despite the price increase, Apple TV is offering a free one-month trial to attract subscribers. While the Phillies’ game will not air on NBC Sports Philadelphia or other traditional platforms, Apple TV provides several unique features. One standout perk is the ability to switch the audio feed to 94.1 WIP, the Phillies’ radio broadcast, with Scott Franzke and Kevin Stocker’s play-by-play perfectly synced to the stream’s high-definition footage and minimalist graphics. However, the constant probabilities and live gambling updates included in the broadcast may be distracting for some viewers. Franzke, who has called every Phillies game this season, noted that the shift to Apple TV has not significantly altered his routine. “For us, it’s business as usual,” he said. “There might be a few extra people listening or consuming the game that way, but for us it doesn’t really change a whole lot.” The broadcast for Friday’s game will feature Wayne Randazzo, the TV voice of the Los Angeles Angels and cousin of MLB umpire Tony Randazzo, alongside Dontrelle Willis, a former Phillies pitcher turned analyst, and Heidi Watney, who will report from Dodgers Stadium.#shohei_ohtani #los_angeles_dodgers #philadelphia_phillies #apple_tv #nbc_sports_philadelphia

Dodgers' Tanner Scott Reveals How He Got Back on Track After Nightmare First Season When the Los Angeles Dodgers signed relief pitcher Tanner Scott two winters ago, the move generated significant excitement within the organization. The team had just won the World Series, and the acquisition of arguably the best bullpen arm on the market was seen as a strategic move to address a key weakness. However, Scott's 2025 season with the Dodgers quickly devolved into a challenging chapter of his career. The veteran struggled to maintain consistency on the mound, leading to a turbulent year marked by erratic performances. By midseason, he was removed from the closer role and missed the postseason after undergoing a medical procedure. Over the course of the 2025 season, Scott appeared in 61 games, posting an ERA of 4.74 while securing only 23 of 33 save opportunities. Despite the struggles, Scott's second season with the Dodgers has seen a dramatic turnaround. He recently opened up about the mental and physical adjustments that helped him regain his form. "I just tried washing it away," Scott told The Athletic. "Literally, when January 1 happened, new year, new — going back to what I used to do and just being yourself and trusting your ability and believing your stuff. It’s kind of going out there with a ‘F you, F it’ mindset, and just rolling." This shift in approach has translated into tangible results, as Scott has appeared in 21 games this season with an impressive ERA of 1.37. His resurgence has been particularly valuable for the Dodgers, especially with closer Edwin Díaz sidelined by an injury. Scott’s improved performance has been attributed to specific adjustments he made earlier in the year. Last season, he often struggled with putting the ball in harm’s way, particularly when facing two strikes.#2025_season #los_angeles_dodgers #the_athletic #edwin_diaz #tanner_scott

Tanner Scott's Redemption Arc: From Criticism to Dominance in 2026 The Los Angeles Dodgers' once-derided closer, Tanner Scott, has transformed from a polarizing figure in 2025 to a dominant lefty reliever in 2026, silencing critics who once questioned his role on the team. After a disastrous 2025 season marked by a 4.74 ERA, 15 blown saves, and a lack of postseason appearances, Scott’s resurgence has redefined his value to the Dodgers. By mid-May 2026, his performance has shifted the narrative entirely, with fans and analysts alike acknowledging his resurgence. Scott’s 2026 season has been nothing short of remarkable. Through May 24, he posted a 1.25 ERA, a 32.5% strikeout rate, and a 3.9% walk rate, showcasing his dominance in the late innings. His fastball averages nearly 97 mph, and he consistently throws first-pitch strikes to 75% of batters. These numbers contrast sharply with his 2025 struggles, where he posted a 4.74 ERA and led the league in blown saves. Advanced metrics further support his turnaround: his xERA of 2.97 and FIP of 2.39 indicate that his success is not merely a product of luck. His 17.9% swinging strike rate ranks seventh among relievers, underscoring his effectiveness against opposing hitters. The Dodgers’ strategic shift in Scott’s role has been pivotal to his revival. After acquiring Edwin Diaz in a three-year, $69 million deal over the winter, the team moved Scott from the closer role to a setup man, a position he thrived in during his time with the San Diego Padres. This adjustment alleviated the pressure of closing games and allowed Scott to leverage his matchup-based strengths. The results were immediate, with Scott delivering consistent performances in high-leverage situations.#los_angeles_dodgers #dave_roberts #andrew_friedman #edwin_diaz #tanner_scott

Lakers Seek Front-Office Expansion Amid Playoff Loss, Target NBA Prospects The Los Angeles Lakers are pursuing a significant overhaul of their front office as part of a broader restructuring under new owner Mark Walter. The move follows a disappointing NBA playoffs exit, where the team fell to the Oklahoma City Thunder in the second round despite a regular-season record of 53-29 that secured them the No. 4 seed in the Western Conference. The expansion aims to align the Lakers' operations with the model of the Los Angeles Dodgers, a franchise Walter also owns as part of the Guggenheim group. Central to the restructuring is Rob Pelinka, who will remain the primary decision-maker in the front office. Pelinka has outlined plans to hire two assistant general managers this offseason. One role will focus on draft and player evaluation processes, while the other will specialize in salary-cap strategy, data analytics, and long-term planning. The Lakers’ front-office expansion is also tied to broader efforts to modernize their operations, as highlighted by The Athletic’s Dan Woike, who reported in February that the team was preparing for “significant hires” to mirror the Dodgers’ organizational structure. The search for new talent has drawn interest from several NBA executives. According to HoopsHype’s Michael Scotto, potential candidates include Prosper Karangwa of the Philadelphia 76ers, Eric Amsler of the Miami Heat, and Bart Taylor of the Utah Jazz. Karangwa, who has been with the 76ers since October 2020, has also attracted attention from the Dallas Mavericks following Daryl Morey’s departure from Philadelphia. Amsler, a veteran in the Heat’s scouting department since the 2004-05 season, has served as vice president of player personnel since the 2023-24 season.#los_angeles_lakers #los_angeles_dodgers #rob_pelinka #mark_walter #prosper_karangwa

Andy Pages Emerges as an Elite Defender in Center Field After ‘a Little Humble Pie’ The Los Angeles Dodgers’ center fielder, Andy Pages, has transformed from a player doubted in his ability to hold the position into one of the game’s premier defenders. His journey, marked by relentless work ethic and pivotal moments on the field, has solidified his status as a key contributor to the team’s success. Pages’ evolution has been chronicled through his performance in high-stakes games, his statistical contributions, and the praise from coaches and teammates, all of which underscore his rise to elite status. Pages’ path to becoming a reliable center fielder was not without challenges. After a standout catch in the ninth inning of Game 7 of the World Series, where he robbed Toronto Blue Jays’ Ernie Clement of a walk-off hit, he was far from a guaranteed starter in the position. At the time, he was considered a long shot to stick in center field, a role that demands both physical prowess and mental sharpness. His early struggles included a torn labrum in his shoulder during the 2023 minor league season, which required significant recovery time before he made his big-league debut. Despite these obstacles, Pages’ determination to improve has been a defining trait. The Dodgers’ outfield coach, Dino Ebel, has been instrumental in Pages’ development, emphasizing the importance of daily drills to refine his skills. Ebel noted that Pages’ work ethic has been a cornerstone of his progress, stating, “He’s worked extremely hard.” This dedication has translated into measurable results. By the 2025 season, Pages had become a plus defensive center fielder, earning 11 Outs Above Average and 8 defensive runs saved. His ability to read the game and make split-second decisions has been a key factor in his growth.#los_angeles_dodgers #mookie_betts #andy_pages #dino_ebel #world_series

Shohei Ohtani Responds to Dodgers' Hitting Break with First Homer Since April 26 The Los Angeles Dodgers had planned to give their star player a mental and physical break from the batter’s box, but Shohei Ohtani defied expectations by delivering his first home run since April 26. The decision came after a rough stretch at the plate, with Ohtani struggling to find his rhythm and the Dodgers suffering a four-game losing streak. Manager Dave Roberts announced the plan to rest Ohtani during a four-game series against the San Francisco Giants, aiming to help the two-way superstar regain his form. However, Ohtani’s performance in a critical game Tuesday night proved that the break might not have been necessary. Roberts had already hinted at the possibility of sitting Ohtani during his scheduled pitching start against the Giants, confirming the plan a day after stating his intention to provide the player at least one day off. The manager’s strategy was rooted in the belief that a temporary respite could help Ohtani recalibrate his approach at the plate. “It certainly should be on the table,” Roberts said Monday when asked about the potential day off. Yet, Ohtani’s response to the plan was immediate and decisive. In the leadoff spot against Giants righty Adrian Houser, Ohtani began the game with a single in the first inning. Just moments later, he launched a 398-foot home run into the third inning, giving the Dodgers a 2-1 lead. Despite the early momentum, the Giants rallied to win 6-2, handing the Dodgers their fourth consecutive loss. The result underscored the challenges the team faces, as they now sit at 24-18, a half-game behind the first-place San Diego Padres in the NL West. Ohtani’s performance in the game was a stark contrast to his recent struggles.#shohei_ohtani #los_angeles_dodgers #san_francisco_giants #dave_roberts #adrian_houser

Shohei Ohtani Lowers ERA to MLB-Best 0.82 in Win Over Giants LOS ANGELES -- Shohei Ohtani continued his dominance on the mound as a pitcher, helping the Los Angeles Dodgers secure a 4-0 victory over the San Francisco Giants on Wednesday night. The two-way star, who has been limited to pitching duties for the fourth time in seven starts this season, struck out eight Giants across seven scoreless innings. Ohtani allowed just four hits and two walks while throwing 105 pitches, further solidifying his position atop the MLB ERA leaderboard with a near-perfect 0.82 mark through seven starts. Ohtani’s performance marked the second-lowest ERA by a Dodgers pitcher through their first seven starts of a season since the earned run became an official statistic in the National League in 1912. Only Fernando Valenzuela, who posted a 0.29 ERA after seven starts in 1981, had a lower mark in that span. Manager Dave Roberts emphasized Ohtani’s focus on pitching excellence, noting that his dedication to the role benefits the team’s long-term goals. The Dodgers entered the game in desperate need of a win, having lost four consecutive games by at least four runs. Ohtani’s presence on the mound provided the stability the team required, though the Dodgers had struggled in his previous six starts, going 2-4. This victory ended their season-high-tying four-game losing streak and marked their first win in an Ohtani start since April 15. Ohtani’s dominance was evident from the start, as he received early run support from back-to-back home runs by Santiago Espinal and Mookie Betts in the third inning. The Dodgers added two more runs in the fourth inning through small-ball tactics, giving Ohtani ample cushion to dominate the Giants’ lineup.#shohei_ohtani #los_angeles_dodgers #san_francisco_giants #santiago_espinal #mookie_betts

Giants Shuffle Roster Ahead of Dodgers Series The San Francisco Giants made several roster adjustments on Monday ahead of their crucial matchup against the Los Angeles Dodgers, reshuffling both their everyday lineup and bullpen depth. The moves included optioning catcher Logan Porter and right-handed pitcher Dylan Smith to Triple-A Sacramento while recalling right-hander Tristan Beck from the minor leagues and reinstating outfielder Harrison Bader from the 10-day Injured List after a rehab assignment. Bader, who had been sidelined by lingering left hamstring issues dating back to Spring Training, returned to the active roster following a six-game rehab stint in Sacramento. The veteran outfielder has struggled offensively since joining the Giants, posting a .115 batting average with a .145 on-base percentage and a .338 OPS in 55 plate appearances. Despite his offensive challenges, Bader has contributed defensively, offering the Giants an experienced option in center field. The club has faced difficulties maintaining consistency in that position throughout the season, and his return provides added depth. Beck, who began the season at Triple-A Sacramento, was recalled to bolster the Giants’ bullpen. The right-hander has struggled in his Triple-A tenure, posting a 5.40 ERA across 13 appearances and 16 2/3 innings. However, Beck has shown promise at the major-league level, recording a 4.61 ERA in 31 games during the 2025 season. His promotion adds flexibility to a Giants bullpen that ranks among the strongest in the National League, allowing the team to manage workload and matchups more effectively. Porter’s brief time with the major-league club was cut short after being recalled on May 9.#los_angeles_dodgers #san_francisco_giants #tristan_bek #logan_porter #dylan_smith

San Francisco Giants Activate Harrison Bader, Call Up Tristan Beck The San Francisco Giants made several roster adjustments ahead of their four-game series against the Los Angeles Dodgers, activating center fielder Harrison Bader from the 10-Day Injured List and calling up right-handed reliever Tristan Beck. The moves were announced on Monday, just hours before the start of the road trip, as the team sought to address bullpen fatigue after a grueling weekend of games. To make space for Bader and Beck, right-hander Dylan Smith and catcher Logan Porter were optioned to AAA Sacramento. Beck, a 28-year-old reliever, was called up for the first time this season. He had spent the majority of the year in the minors, posting a 5.40 ERA and a 3.15 FIP in AAA. The decision to bring him up was driven by the Giants’ need for a rested arm following a taxing weekend series. On Saturday, the Giants used five relievers in a blowout loss, throwing 119 pitches. Sunday’s 12-inning game saw six relief pitchers, including Smith, account for 98 pitches. Beck’s addition aims to provide stability against the Dodgers’ potent lineup. Bader’s activation marks his return from a six-game rehab assignment with Sacramento. During his time in the minors, he hit .222 (4-18) with two home runs, three walks, five strikeouts, and one stolen base. The Giants hope his performance in AAA, combined with full health, will improve his offensive output. Prior to his injury, Bader struggled in the majors, hitting .115 (6-52) with one home run, one double, two walks, and 17 strikeouts. The team emphasized that his defensive skills remain a key asset, though his offensive production has been a concern. Smith and Porter, who were sent back to Sacramento, had minimal roles with the Giants.#harrison_bader #los_angeles_dodgers #san_francisco_giants #tristan_beck #dylan_smith

Freddie Freeman homers as Dodgers beat Chris Sale, Braves in marquee matchup The Los Angeles Dodgers secured a 3-1 victory over the Atlanta Braves in a high-stakes matchup at Dodger Stadium, marking the opening game of a crucial series. The contest, which carried the weight of a potential postseason preview, saw both teams showcase their offensive firepower and defensive acumen. The Dodgers, the two-time defending World Series champions, maintained their dominance with a gritty performance, while the Braves, riding a strong early-season surge, faced their first setback of the year. The game’s outcome hinged on a combination of defensive brilliance, clutch hitting, and strategic pitching adjustments, ultimately favoring the Dodgers in a tightly contested affair. The Braves entered the game with a formidable reputation, leading the majors in runs scored and boasting a potent lineup. Their pitching staff, anchored by former Cy Young winner Chris Sale, posed a significant challenge for the Dodgers. Meanwhile, the Dodgers, ranked second in ERA, countered with a deep bullpen and a lineup capable of capitalizing on any defensive miscue. Manager Dave Roberts described the game as “a typical sort of October game,” emphasizing the high stakes and the need for precision. The Dodgers’ ability to execute under pressure was evident as they navigated key moments with composure. The game’s turning point came in the fifth inning when a costly error by Braves rookie shortstop Jim Jarvis allowed the Dodgers to seize control. Jarvis, who had made a diving catch earlier in the game, misfired on a throw to second base, placing Miguel Rojas in a favorable position. Three batters later, Shohei Ohtani delivered a two-out ground-rule double to plate the go-ahead run, showcasing his ability to deliver in clutch situations.#atlanta_braves #los_angeles_dodgers #freddie_freeman #dodger_stadium #chris_sale

Astros' Carlos Correa Sits vs. Dodgers with Left Ankle Injury HOUSTON — Houston Astros shortstop Carlos Correa was removed from Tuesday night’s lineup against the Los Angeles Dodgers after sustaining a left ankle injury during batting practice. The injury occurred in the batting cage prior to the game, prompting the team to adjust its roster for the matchup. Manager Joe Espada confirmed the decision following the Astros’ 2-1 victory, stating that Correa would consult a foot specialist on Wednesday to assess the severity of the injury. The Astros faced similar challenges the previous day, as catcher Yainer Diaz was also scratched from Monday’s game after injuring an oblique during batting practice. Diaz’s absence led to the activation of veteran Christian Vazquez as the starting catcher. Espada provided limited details on Diaz’s recovery timeline, only noting that the injury would keep him out “for a while.” To accommodate Correa’s absence, the Astros made defensive adjustments, moving Nick Allen from third base to shortstop and placing Braden Shewmake in the lineup to play third base. Offensively, the team reconfigured its batting order, promoting Jose Altuve to the leadoff position to replace Correa. Shewmake, who batted ninth, delivered a crucial home run in the third inning—a solo shot off Shohei Ohtani—that proved pivotal in securing the win. Espada’s comments highlighted the team’s adaptability in the face of injuries, emphasizing the need to maintain competitive balance despite setbacks. The lineup changes underscored the Astros’ reliance on depth and flexibility, particularly in a high-stakes matchup against a formidable opponent. The game’s outcome, combined with the injury developments, reflected the challenges of maintaining consistency in a demanding schedule.#shohei_ohtani #los_angeles_dodgers #carlos_correa #christian_vazquez #joe_espada

Marlins vs Dodgers Prediction, Picks & Odds for Today's MLB Game The Los Angeles Dodgers are favored to win their series finale against the Miami Marlins at Dodger Stadium, according to expert analysis. The game, scheduled for Wednesday, April 29, 2026, will feature two of baseball’s top pitchers in Tyler Glasnow for the Dodgers and Sandy Alcantara for the Marlins. The expert prediction leans heavily toward the Dodgers, with a run line pick of -1.5 at -108 odds, while the over/under total is set at 8.5 with the over line at +100. The Dodgers’ run line pick is based on their strong performance against Glasnow, who has been dominant this season. Glasnow, with a 2.45 ERA, has pitched effectively in two afternoon starts, including an eight-inning shutout against the Giants. His 1.29 ERA in those outings and his ability to neutralize the Marlins’ lineup make him a key factor in the Dodgers’ favor. The team has provided Glasnow with solid run support, covering the run line in three of his five starts, including a 3-0 shutout. The Marlins, meanwhile, rely on Alcantara, who has a 3.05 ERA but has struggled on the road. His 7.50 ERA in two starts away from Miami highlights his vulnerability, particularly against the Dodgers’ lineup. The Dodgers have hit .324 against Alcantara in 105 at-bats, with players like Freddie Freeman, Shohei Ohtani, Max Muncy, and Teoscar Hernandez performing well. This matchup is expected to favor the Dodgers, who have a history of scoring runs against Alcantara. The over/under total of 8.5 is supported by historical trends, as seven of the last eight meetings between the teams have gone over the total. The only Under result since 2024 was a 2-1 game on Monday, which is seen as an outlier.#los_angeles_dodgers #miami_marlins #freddie_freeman #sandy_alcantara #tyler_glasnow

Yoshinobu Yamamoto Set to Make Key Start for Dodgers in Miami Clash Yoshinobu Yamamoto is poised to take the mound for the Los Angeles Dodgers in a crucial matchup against the Miami Marlins, marking his first encounter with the team since May 2024. The Japanese right-hander has emerged as a cornerstone of the Dodgers’ pitching staff this season, delivering five consecutive quality starts that have solidified his status as one of the league’s premier starters. This achievement places him in rare company, as he becomes the first Dodger since Zack Greinke in 2015 to begin a season with at least five straight quality outings. While Greinke’s historic 10-game streak remains a benchmark, Yamamoto’s current run highlights his consistency and adaptability in a competitive rotation. The upcoming series opener at Dodger Stadium presents a fresh opportunity for Yamamoto to extend his streak. The game will serve as a rematch of a May 2024 matchup, where Yamamoto pitched eight innings, allowing two earned runs on five hits while striking out five Marlins batters. However, the Marlins’ lineup has undergone significant changes since that game, with none of the hitters from that contest remaining on the team. This clean slate means both teams will approach the matchup without the lingering effects of past encounters, setting the stage for a new chapter in their rivalry. Yamamoto’s recent performances have underscored his ability to bounce back from early struggles. After allowing three runs in the first inning during his start against the San Francisco Giants on April 21, he managed to limit damage for the rest of the game, pitching seven innings of three-run ball.#los_angeles_dodgers #miami_marlins #yoshinobu_yamamoto #dave_roberts #dodger_stadium

Dodgers' Roki Sasaki Halts Cubs' 10-Game Winning Streak with Sixth-Inning Performance LOS ANGELES – In a pivotal matchup at Dodger Stadium, the Los Angeles Dodgers secured a 12-4 victory over the Chicago Cubs, ending the Cubs’ 10-game winning streak. The game featured a standout performance from Japanese star Roki Sasaki, who pitched into the sixth inning for the first time this season. Despite allowing four runs—three of which came via home runs—Sasaki earned his first win of the year by limiting Chicago’s offensive output and slowing down the Cubs’ momentum. Sasaki, the Dodgers’ starting pitcher, faced seven hits and walked one batter while striking out five. His ability to navigate the sixth inning marked a significant step forward in his adaptation to Major League Baseball. The game’s outcome underscored his growing role in the rotation, as the Dodgers leaned on his versatility and command to disrupt the Cubs’ offensive rhythm. The pitcher’s performance was highlighted by his increased use of splitters, a pitch he had previously relied on less frequently. During the game, Sasaki emphasized the effectiveness of his splitter, noting that he had better control of the pitch and used it strategically to build counts. When asked about the adjustment in his splitter usage, he stated, “Today, I had good control of it, and it was a good pitch to use to build the counts, so I think it was an easy to pitch to call for.” Sasaki also mentioned that he made a slight adjustment between starts to throw his splitter harder, though he declined to specify the exact change. He confirmed that the adjustment was similar to techniques he had used in Japan, where he developed his repertoire. “That’s correct,” he said. “Yes.” Despite the win, Sasaki acknowledged challenges in his development.#chicago_cubs #los_angeles_dodgers #dodger_stadium #roki_sasaki #splitter_pitch

Dodgers End Cubs' 10-Game Winning Streak with 12-4 Victory The Los Angeles Dodgers ended the Chicago Cubs’ 10-game winning streak with a 12-4 victory on Saturday night, overcoming a sluggish start to dominate the game and shift momentum in the three-game series. The win, which came at Dodger Stadium under overcast skies and a brief rain shower, highlighted the Dodgers’ offensive resurgence and marked a turning point in their recent struggles. The Cubs had entered the game with an MLB-best 10-game winning streak, but the Dodgers’ explosive performance in the fourth inning sealed their fate. The Cubs took an early 2-0 lead in the top of the third inning against Dodgers starter Roki Sasaki. However, the Dodgers quickly responded in the bottom of the frame, with Shohei Ohtani leading off the inning with a walk. Two batters later, Max Muncy hit a game-tying home run, breaking a 0-for-12 slump for the Japanese star. The Dodgers continued to apply pressure, and by the end of the fourth inning, they had extended their lead to 8-3. The offensive explosion came in the bottom of the fourth, where the Dodgers unleashed a six-run inning that showcased their team-wide resurgence. Hyeseong Kim opened the rally with a one-out single, and the hits kept coming. Alex Freeland doubled to bring Kim home, while Ohtani walked and Freddie Freeman followed with an RBI single. Both Ohtani and Freeman scored on a base hit from Teoscar Hernández, who had been in a 0-for-13 slump. Dalton Rushing and Andy Pages added runs with doubles, capping the inning with 11 Dodgers hitters reaching base. Manager Dave Roberts praised the team’s ability to “stress” opposing pitchers, a hallmark of the Dodgers’ approach. “We all love home runs, but our club’s hallmark is stress and continuing to put pressure on the opposing pitchers,” Roberts said.#chicago_cubs #shohei_ohtani #los_angeles_dodgers #roki_sasaki #max_muncy

Rick Monday Recalls Saving American Flag 50 Years Ago Fifty years ago on Saturday, an ordinary moment during a baseball game at Dodger Stadium became a defining moment in American history. The event unfolded during a crucial game between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Chicago Cubs, which served as the deciding game of a three-game series. In the bottom of the fourth inning, two fans breached the left-center field fence and rushed onto the outfield grass. Chicago center fielder Rick Monday, who had served six years in the U.S. Marine Reserves during his 19-year MLB career, noticed an unusual sound and turned to see the trespassers engaged in an act that would forever alter the game’s narrative. The fans had unfurled an American flag, but their intentions were far from patriotic. One of them pulled out a can of lighter fluid and began dousing the flag, preparing to set it ablaze. Monday, recognizing the danger, sprinted toward the intruders. Reflecting on the incident in a 2016 interview with the LA Times, Monday recalled, “I didn’t know if it was on fire or not, but I did know one of the guys was not a [baseball player].” The trespasser attempted to throw the lighter fluid at Monday but missed, prompting Monday to intervene. “I may have been thinking about bowling them over,” Monday said, “but if they don’t have the flag, they cannot burn it. So I scooped down and got the flag.” His quick action prevented the desecration of the national symbol. The crowd at Dodger Stadium erupted in response, beginning to sing “God Bless America.” The trespassers were swiftly escorted off the field, with then-Dodgers third base coach Tommy Lasorda confronting them with expletives.#chicago_cubs #los_angeles_dodgers #rick_monday #national_baseball_hall_of_fame #tommy_lasorda

Dodgers Defeat Giants 3-0 in Series-Opening Game SAN FRANCISCO -- Tyer Glasnow and Tanner Scott combined on a one-hitter as the Los Angeles Dodgers defeated the San Francisco Giants 3-0 on Thursday, April 23, 2026. The NL West-leading Dodgers avoided a three-game series sweep with the victory, which marked their second win in six games. Kyle Tucker and Hyeseong Kim each contributed two hits, while Kim and Dalton Rushing recorded RBIs. Shohei Ohtani went 0 for 5 with two strikeouts. Glasnow (3-0), a 32-year-old right-hander, pitched eight innings, striking out nine and allowing one hit and a walk. He threw 105 pitches, 69 for strikes, and retired the final 14 batters he faced. This was the first time in his MLB career that Glasnow pitched a complete game. Scott earned his first save of the season by retiring the final three batters. The Dodgers’ offense provided key support. After being held to one run in the first two games of the series, Los Angeles took a 1-0 lead in the second inning. With two outs, Dalton Rushing hit an RBI single off Giants starter Logan Webb. Webb (2-3) allowed three runs and seven hits in seven innings, with five strikeouts and two walks. The game turned in the fourth inning when Muncy doubled and scored on a throwing error by Giants center fielder Drew Gilbert. Kim added a two-out RBI single to make it 3-0. The Giants managed only one hit, a single by Luis Arraez in the first inning, and failed to advance any runner past first base. San Francisco fell to 2-5 in their last seven games. Webb struggled with command, surrendering three runs and seven hits. The Giants’ pitching staff faced challenges, as the Dodgers’ lineup capitalized on defensive lapses and timely hitting. The victory improved the Dodgers’ record to 12-8, while the Giants dropped to 10-10.#shohei_ohtani #los_angeles_dodgers #san_francisco_giants #logan_webb #tyer_glasnow