LOS ANGELES — The Los Angeles Dodgers are on the brink of another World Series appearance after a crucial 3-1 victory over the Milwaukee Brewers in Game 3 of the National League Championship Series (NLCS). With this win, the Dodgers seized a commanding 3-0 lead in the series, just one win away from clinching their second consecutive NL pennant.
Blake Snell kickstarted the strong performance for the Dodgers in Game 1, laying the groundwork for an impressive series. Yoshinobu Yamamoto followed suit in Game 2, boosting the team’s confidence as they transitioned to their home turf at Dodger Stadium. Right-hander Tyler Glasnow took the mound for Game 3, tasked with maintaining the momentum created by his predecessors.
Despite some initial struggles that resulted in traffic on the basepaths during the first two innings, Glasnow demonstrated resilience. Though he allowed a second-inning triple and a run-scoring single, he was saved by a remarkable defensive play by third baseman Max Muncy, who threw out a runner at the plate. Glasnow managed to escape the inning with minimal damage, a moment that would serve as a turning point in his performance.
After throwing 40 pitches in the first two innings, there were concerns that Glasnow might not last long. However, he found his rhythm in the third inning, striking out the side and showcasing his ability to command the mound against Milwaukee’s formidable hitters. This resurgence continued throughout his outing, culminating in 5 2/3 innings pitched, allowing just one run, and notching seven strikeouts.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts praised Glasnow’s composure and ability to rise to the occasion, noting his importance in navigating through a potentially challenging game and helping to preserve the bullpen. This performance was especially sweet for Glasnow, who missed the Dodgers’ championship run last year due to injury, making his contributions all the more meaningful.
Throughout the first three games of the NLCS, Dodgers starters have been pivotal, combining for an impressive total of 22 2/3 innings pitched, with only two runs allowed and 25 strikeouts recorded. While the offense has struggled to produce more than three runs in Game 3, the strong starting pitching and a rested bullpen have kept the team in commanding form.
As the Dodgers gear up for Game 4, all eyes will be on Shohei Ohtani, who is set to take the mound as the anchor of the pitching staff. Although he has faced difficulties at the plate this postseason, Ohtani’s first postseason appearance allowed him to turn in a commendable performance, going six innings and striking out nine. A similar showing on Friday could very well secure the team’s spot in the World Series.
With the Dodgers riding a wave of pitching excellence and awaiting Ohtani’s crucial performance, fans are filled with hope as they inch closer to another championship opportunity.