The Los Angeles Dodgers managed to secure a thrilling 9-7 win against the Colorado Rockies in the series opener at Coors Field, narrowly avoiding a late-game collapse after almost squandering an 8-3 lead. This victory marked the Dodgers’ fourth triumph over the Rockies this season, with three of those games being decided by two runs or less, despite Colorado’s daunting -204 run differential.
Yoshinobu Yamamoto, who has struggled recently, is set to take the mound next, aiming to improve upon a season where he’s faced challenges, including a 4.37 ERA in his last few outings. The Dodgers have not won any of Yamamoto’s four June starts, during which the team scored only nine runs in total. His last performance against the Padres saw him allow three runs over 6 1/3 innings, although the Dodgers ultimately lost. Notably, Yamamoto has demonstrated some success against the Rockies in the past, allowing just one run in six innings during one of his starts last season.
On the Rockies’ side, Chase Dollander, their top prospect, will make his debut against the Dodgers. Dollander has encountered a rocky start to his rookie season, with a 6.19 ERA over 12 starts. However, he recently had a promising outing against Washington, where he pitched six innings and allowed only two runs. He has shown potential with a high-velocity fastball averaging 97.6 MPH, although he has struggled with consistency, particularly at Coors Field.
Additionally, the Dodgers’ Dalton Rushing will start behind the plate, filling in for Will Smith, and Michael Conforto will be positioned in left field after a strong performance the previous night.
In minor league news, Emmet Sheehan had an outstanding performance, achieving six perfect innings and striking out 13 batters in his latest start. He may be returning to the Dodgers’ roster soon, potentially for the series against the Astros around the Fourth of July weekend.
The Dodgers look to continue their winning streak and aim for their 50th victory of the season with the first pitch scheduled for 5:40 PM PT, broadcasted on SportsNet LA. With the team’s potential and promising player performances, there is hope for continued success as the season unfolds.