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Cash takes blame after Rays lose track of mound visits and are forced to change pitchers in 9th
Read full article: Cash takes blame after Rays lose track of mound visits and are forced to change pitchers in 9thRays reliever Jason Adam was forced out of Thursday night’s game at Fenway Park in the ninth inning when pitching coach Kyle Snyder headed to the mound with Tampa Bay out of visits.
Adam Duvall hits 3-run homer in the 10th in the Red Sox’s 7-5 victory over the Astros
Read full article: Adam Duvall hits 3-run homer in the 10th in the Red Sox’s 7-5 victory over the AstrosAdam Duvall hit a three-run homer in the 10th inning to lift the Boston Red Sox to a 7-5 victory over the Houston Astros on Wednesday night.
Small but mighty Curacao back in position to make a big run at the Little League World Series
Read full article: Small but mighty Curacao back in position to make a big run at the Little League World SeriesComing back to the Little League World Series after losing last year’s title game, Curacao doesn’t just want to be good for its size.
Red Sox win 4-1, 6-2 to sweep Yankees in doubleheader and series
Read full article: Red Sox win 4-1, 6-2 to sweep Yankees in doubleheader and seriesAlex Verdugo scored on a catcher’s interference to break a fourth-inning tie and then scored again in the fifth after reaching on a dropped popop and the Boston Red Sox beat the New York Yankees 4-1 to complete a doubleheader and series sweep of their AL East archrivals.
Whitlock pitches Red Sox over Yanks 3-2 in rivals' 1st meeting this year
Read full article: Whitlock pitches Red Sox over Yanks 3-2 in rivals' 1st meeting this yearGarrett Whitlock got his second win since replacing Corey Kluber in the Red Sox rotation, Rafael Devers and Kiké Hernández homered, and Boston beat the New York Yankees 3-1 in the first meeting this year of a rivalry cut to 13 games by the new balanced schedule.
Kimbrel 8th pitcher in MLB history to earn 400 saves, Phillies beat Braves 6-4
Read full article: Kimbrel 8th pitcher in MLB history to earn 400 saves, Phillies beat Braves 6-4Craig Kimbrel became the eighth pitcher in major league history to earn 400 saves, Brandon Marsh hit a go-ahead, two-run single in the sixth inning and the Philadelphia Phillies beat the Atlanta Braves 6-4.
MLB warns teams that batters may not try to trick pitchers into clock violations
Read full article: MLB warns teams that batters may not try to trick pitchers into clock violationsTeams have been warned by Major League Baseball that batters may not attempt to deceive pitchers into quick-pitch violations.
Jansen becomes 7th in major league history with 400 saves, Red Sox beat Braves 5-2
Read full article: Jansen becomes 7th in major league history with 400 saves, Red Sox beat Braves 5-2Kenley Jansen became the seventh player in major league history to earn 400 saves, pinch-hitter Raimel Tapia hit a go-ahead RBI double in the seventh inning, and the Boston Red Sox beat the Atlanta Braves 5-2.
Wright outduels Wheeler, Braves blank Phils 3-0 to even NLDS
Read full article: Wright outduels Wheeler, Braves blank Phils 3-0 to even NLDSKyle Wright threw six brilliant innings to outduel Zack Wheeler, and the Atlanta Braves evened their NL Division Series at one game apiece with a 3-0 victory over the Philadelphia Phillies.
Phillies' Robertson injured celebrating, off NLDS roster
Read full article: Phillies' Robertson injured celebrating, off NLDS rosterPhiladelphia Phillies reliever David Robertson will miss the NL Division Series after injuring his right calf jumping to celebrate Bryce Harper’s home run in their clinching wild-card victory at St. Louis.
Braves sweep Mets, take 2-game lead in East with 3 remaining
Read full article: Braves sweep Mets, take 2-game lead in East with 3 remainingDansby Swanson and Matt Olson homered for the third straight game, Travis d’Arnaud hit a go-ahead two-run single in the third inning, and Atlanta Braves beat the New York Mets 5-3, completing a three-game sweep of their NL East rival and taking a two-game lead in the division with three games to play.
Swanson, Olson go deep vs Scherzer, Braves take NL East lead
Read full article: Swanson, Olson go deep vs Scherzer, Braves take NL East leadDansby Swanson and Matt Olson homered off Max Scherzer, lifting the Atlanta Braves to a crucial 4-2 victory over the New York Mets and a one-game lead in the NL East.
Braves hit 3 HRs off deGrom, beat Mets, tie for NL East lead
Read full article: Braves hit 3 HRs off deGrom, beat Mets, tie for NL East leadAustin Riley and Matt Olson hit back-to-back homers off Jacob deGrom in the second inning and Dansby Swanson later connected off the Mets ace as the Atlanta Braves beat New York 5-2 to move into a tie for the NL East lead.
Olson HR vs former team, surging Braves top A's, catch Mets
Read full article: Olson HR vs former team, surging Braves top A's, catch MetsMatt Olson hit a three-run homer against his former club and the Atlanta Braves won their sixth in a row, outslugging the Oakland Athletics 10-9 and finally catching the slumping Mets atop the NL East.
Braves rookie Strider fans Atlanta record 16 in win over Rox
Read full article: Braves rookie Strider fans Atlanta record 16 in win over RoxRookie Spencer Strider set an Atlanta record with 16 strikeouts while allowing only two hits in eight innings to lead the Braves to a 3-0 win over the Colorado Rockies.
Wright wins 17th; Riley, Acuña homer as Braves edge Rockies
Read full article: Wright wins 17th; Riley, Acuña homer as Braves edge RockiesKyle Wright pitched seven scoreless innings to earn his major league-leading 17th victory, Austin Riley and Ronald Acuña Jr. homered, and the Atlanta Braves beat the Colorado Rockies 3-2.
Freeman hits 1st HR for Dodgers in reunion win over Braves
Read full article: Freeman hits 1st HR for Dodgers in reunion win over BravesFreddie Freeman slugged his first home run in a Dodgers uniform — against his former team, no less — and Los Angeles beat the Atlanta Braves 7-4 for its seventh consecutive victory.
LEADING OFF: Freeman vs Braves, Hill's special Patriots' Day
Read full article: LEADING OFF: Freeman vs Braves, Hill's special Patriots' DayFreddie Freeman faces the Braves in Los Angeles for the first time since leaving the World Series champions and signing a $162 million, six-year deal with the Dodgers last month.
Morton sharp in return from broken leg, Braves top Reds 7-6
Read full article: Morton sharp in return from broken leg, Braves top Reds 7-6Charlie Morton allowed only two hits while pitching into the sixth inning while returning from a broken leg, Travis d’Arnaud drove in three runs and the Atlanta Braves held off the Cincinnati Reds 7-6.
Taylor hits 3 HRs, Dodgers beat Braves 11-2 to extend NLCS
Read full article: Taylor hits 3 HRs, Dodgers beat Braves 11-2 to extend NLCSChris Taylor hit three homers and drove in six runs to help the Los Angeles Dodgers beat Atlanta 11-2, cutting the Braves' lead to 3-2 in the best-of-seven NL Championship Series.
LEADING OFF: Curious pitching strategy in playoffs all over
Read full article: LEADING OFF: Curious pitching strategy in playoffs all overIn a postseason already marked by curious pitching strategy, Julio Urías returns to his regular role in the rotation when the Los Angeles Dodgers play Atlanta in Game 4 of the NL Championship Series.
Bellinger, Betts rally Dodgers, cut Braves' NLCS lead to 2-1
Read full article: Bellinger, Betts rally Dodgers, cut Braves' NLCS lead to 2-1Cody Bellinger hit a tying, three-run homer and Mookie Betts then lined an RBI double as the Los Angeles Dodgers rallied in the eighth inning, beating Atlanta 6-5 and cutting the Braves’ lead in the NL Championship Series to 2-1.
Late-night magic: Braves beat Dodgers 5-4, lead NLCS 2-0
Read full article: Late-night magic: Braves beat Dodgers 5-4, lead NLCS 2-0The Braves won with a walk-off hit for the second night in a row when Eddie Rosario lined a two-out single off shortstop Corey Seager’s glove, giving Atlanta a 5-4 victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Blowin' in the wind: Giants edge Dodgers 1-0 on Longoria HR
Read full article: Blowin' in the wind: Giants edge Dodgers 1-0 on Longoria HREvan Longoria homered off Max Scherzer in the fifth inning and the San Francisco Giants edged the Los Angeles Dodgers 1-0 on a blustery night to take a 2-1 lead in their NL Division Series.
LEADING OFF: La Russa & Baker, Red Sox vs Rays as ALDS begin
Read full article: LEADING OFF: La Russa & Baker, Red Sox vs Rays as ALDS beginTwo septuagenarians will be on the bench when 77-year-old Hall of Fame manager Tony La Russa and the Chicago White Sox face the Houston Astros and 72-year-old skipper Dusty Baker in their playoff opener Thursday.
Taylor hits walk-off HR, Dodgers deck Cards 3-1 in WC game
Read full article: Taylor hits walk-off HR, Dodgers deck Cards 3-1 in WC gameChris Taylor hit a two-run homer in the bottom of the ninth inning to lift the Los Angeles Dodgers over the St. Louis Cardinals 3-1 in a scintillating NL wild-card game.
Trea Turner slam, solo HR; Kershaw hurt, Dodgers beat Brews
Read full article: Trea Turner slam, solo HR; Kershaw hurt, Dodgers beat BrewsTrea Turner hit a grand slam and solo home run as the Los Angeles Dodgers extended the NL West race for at least another day, rallying past the Milwaukee Brewers 8-6 after starter Clayton Kershaw got hurt.
MLB ERA leader Scherzer dominates again, Dodgers beat Reds
Read full article: MLB ERA leader Scherzer dominates again, Dodgers beat RedsMax Scherzer pitched seven shutout innings in another dominant performance for the Los Angeles Dodgers, who kept up their push in the NL West with a 5-1 victory over the Cincinnati Reds.
Dodgers' Scherzer gets 3,000th K, near perfecto vs Padres
Read full article: Dodgers' Scherzer gets 3,000th K, near perfecto vs PadresMax Scherzer got his 3,000th career strikeout and took a perfect game into the eighth inning as the Los Angeles Dodgers beat the San Diego Padres 8-0 to complete a three-game sweep.
Urías earns MLB-leading 17th win, Dodgers beat Padres 3-0
Read full article: Urías earns MLB-leading 17th win, Dodgers beat Padres 3-0Julio Urías pitched seven shutout innings for his major league-leading 17th victory, Max Muncy slugged a two-run homer and the Los Angeles Dodgers beat the San Diego Padres 3-0 to snap a two-game skid.
Seager, Dodgers beat Braves 3-2; Albies' foul injures knee
Read full article: Seager, Dodgers beat Braves 3-2; Albies' foul injures kneeCorey Seager hit a tiebreaking double in the eighth inning, lifting the Los Angeles Dodgers to a 3-2 victory over the Atlanta Braves in a matchup of playoff contenders.
Scherzer Ks 10 in debut, Dodgers hit 4 HRs to beat Astros
Read full article: Scherzer Ks 10 in debut, Dodgers hit 4 HRs to beat AstrosMax Scherzer struck out 10 in his Dodgers debut and got plenty of offensive support as Los Angeles hit four home runs to defeat the Houston Astros 7-5, capping a contentious two-game series at Dodger Stadium.
LA fans don't waste time jeering Astros at Dodger Stadium
Read full article: LA fans don't waste time jeering Astros at Dodger StadiumLos Angeles Dodgers fans waited a long time to let José Altuve and the Houston Astros know just how they felt about possibly being cheated out of a 2017 World Series championship.
Bellinger's blunder in 8th helps Giants top Dodgers 2-1
Read full article: Bellinger's blunder in 8th helps Giants top Dodgers 2-1Buster Posey scored the tiebreaking run on a throwing error by first baseman Cody Bellinger in the eighth inning, and the San Francisco Giants beat the Los Angeles Dodgers 2-1.
Giants rally in 9th for 2nd straight night to beat Dodgers
Read full article: Giants rally in 9th for 2nd straight night to beat DodgersLaMonte Wade Jr. broke a ninth-inning tie with a two-run single and the San Francisco Giants rallied against closer Kenley Jansen again for a 5-3 victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers.
Pujols HR, Dodgers send Diamondbacks to 17th straight loss
Read full article: Pujols HR, Dodgers send Diamondbacks to 17th straight lossAlbert Pujols hit a three-run homer and passed Mel Ott for 14th on the career runs list, and the Los Angeles Dodgers extended the Arizona Diamondbacks’ losing streak to 17 games with a 9-8 victory.
Tauchman robs Pujols of winning HR, Giants top Dodgers in 10
Read full article: Tauchman robs Pujols of winning HR, Giants top Dodgers in 10Giants left fielder Mike Tauchman remarkably reached over the wall to rob Albert Pujols of a walk-off home run in the bottom of the ninth inning and San Francisco broke through in the 10th to beat the Los Angeles Dodgers 8-5 in a thriller.
Dodgers get HRs from Smith, Pujols in 3-2 win over D-backs
Read full article: Dodgers get HRs from Smith, Pujols in 3-2 win over D-backsWill Smith hit a tiebreaking, solo home run in the seventh inning, Albert Pujols slugged a two-run shot, his first for the Dodgers, and Los Angeles defeated the Arizona Diamondbacks 3-2.
Pujols delivers RBI in debut, Dodgers top Diamondbacks 3-1
Read full article: Pujols delivers RBI in debut, Dodgers top Diamondbacks 3-1Albert Pujols delivered an RBI single in his Dodgers debut, and Walker Buehler pitched seven scoreless innings of one-hit ball in Los Angeles’ 3-1 win over the Arizona Diamondbacks.
Dodgers rally past Padres 5-4 despite 2 more homers by Tatis
Read full article: Dodgers rally past Padres 5-4 despite 2 more homers by TatisCorey Seager’s two-run single in the sixth inning provided the go-ahead runs and the Los Angeles Dodgers overcame another two-homer night by Fernando Tatis Jr. to defeat the San Diego Padres 5-4.
Kershaw bounces back, Dodgers beat winless A's 5-1
Read full article: Kershaw bounces back, Dodgers beat winless A's 5-1Clayton Kershaw struck out eight in seven smooth innings to send the Athletics to their worst start in more than a century, and the Los Angeles Dodgers beat winless Oakland 5-1 for their fifth straight victory.
Nats reliever Harris out with blood clot in pitching arm
Read full article: Nats reliever Harris out with blood clot in pitching armHarris has a blood clot in his right arm and is leaving spring training camp to be examined by a specialist, manager Dave Martinez said Friday, March 19, 2021. (Mary DeCicco/MLB Photos via AP)Washington Nationals reliever Will Harris has a blood clot in his right arm and the team doesn't expect him to be in the bullpen on opening day. Carlos Martínez struggled in his fourth start for St. Louis. DODGERS 7, RANGERS 2Julio Urías made his fourth start for Los Angeles, allowing two hits in four shutout innings, striking out three. Adrian Houser made his fourth start.
Sigh and Cy: Bieber tagged, Bauer sharp in Dodgers debut
Read full article: Sigh and Cy: Bieber tagged, Bauer sharp in Dodgers debutBieber bounced back with a pair of strikeouts, but Nick Heath hit a single to put the Royals up 3-0. DODGERS 10, ROCKIES 0 (6 INNINGS)Trevor Bauer, pitching for the first time since signing a $102 million, three-year contract, debuted in Dodger blue with two scoreless innings. Jameson Taillon followed with a scoreless inning. CUBS 1, PADRES 0 (7)Chicago starter Kyle Hendricks struck out two in two scoreless innings. BREWERS 7, DIAMONDBACKS 1 (8)Corbin Burnes and Freddy Peralta each threw a scoreless inning for Milwaukee before Jordan Zimmermann gave up a run.
Angels acquire closer Raisel Iglesias from Reds in trade
Read full article: Angels acquire closer Raisel Iglesias from Reds in tradeANAHEIM, Calif. – The Los Angeles Angels acquired closer Raisel Iglesias from the Cincinnati Reds for right-hander Noé Ramirez and a player to be named or cash Monday in the first trade of the week of baseball's winter meetings. Iglesias has been the Reds' closer for the past four seasons, racking up 100 saves in 114 opportunities over that stretch with a career 3.15 ERA and a 1.12 WHIP. The trade allows the Reds to save money while putting a cornerstone in the Angels’ bullpen, which is being rebuilt by rookie general manager Perry Minasian this offseason. One week after acquiring veteran shortstop José Iglesias from Baltimore, Minasian added one of the most effective closers of the last half-decade. “We want to play meaningful games at the end of the season,” Minasian said.
Kershaw stops steal of home, hands Dodgers 3-2 Series lead
Read full article: Kershaw stops steal of home, hands Dodgers 3-2 Series lead“I think a lot of credit goes to what he’s been able to do in this World Series for us.”Kershaw even prevented the Rays from stealing the tying run. Kershaw’s formidable resume has lacked two of the most satisfying achievements: a win deep in the World Series and a championship ring. “Kersh, a lot of credit goes to him for what we’ve been able to do in this World Series,” Treinen said. Provided a 3-0 lead, Kershaw allowed Tampa Bay to pull within a run in the third when Kiermaier singled, Yandy Díaz tripled on a ball down the right-field line that skipped past Betts and Arozarena’s single. He sets records with nine postseason homers allowed and three wild pitches in a Series game, tying a mark with two wild pitches in an inning.
Rays' rally joins Buckner, Bevens among wild Series endings
Read full article: Rays' rally joins Buckner, Bevens among wild Series endingsIt was undoubtedly one of the wildest endings in World Series history. But a finish this wacky has only a few precedents in World Series history. It was the only time a World Series ended with a caught stealing. Because with two outs in the bottom of the ninth inning, Bevens was somehow still pitching a no-hitter and holding a 2-1 lead. 2016 WORLD SERIES GAME 7, CHICAGO CUBS AT CLEVELAND INDIANSBefore the Cubs could end their 108-year title drought, they had to wait out a 17-minute rain delay.
Jansen blows save, Dodgers squander Game 4, Series tied at 2
Read full article: Jansen blows save, Dodgers squander Game 4, Series tied at 2Los Angeles Dodgers relief pitcher Kenley Jansen pacts after their loss against the Tampa Bay Rays in Game 4 of the baseball World Series Saturday, Oct. 24, 2020, in Arlington, Texas. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)ARLINGTON, Texas – Kenley Jansen threw a cutter inside to Brett Phillips for a ball, then a cutter and a sinker for called strikes. Jansen threw a cutter to the left-handed batter, over the middle and knee high. It was only the fifth Series game that ended in a walk-off that included an error, the first since Game 3 in 2013. Uncertainty ahead going into Game 5, when Clayton Kershaw starts against Tyler Glasnow in a rematch of the opener.
Arozarena slugs into WS history, stumbles into October lore
Read full article: Arozarena slugs into WS history, stumbles into October lore(AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)ARLINGTON, Texas – Hours after slugging his way into World Series history, Randy Arozarena stumbled into October lore. None of those three won the World Series. “It feels really good to be able to break the record and be on top of that record board,” Arozarena said through a translator. Center fielder Chris Taylor bobbled the hit, chased after the ball and threw toward the plate as Arozarena rounded third. Down in the dirt, Arozarena kept pounding the plate as the Rays rushed out to celebrate with him.
Stumbling stunner! Rays shock Dodgers in 9th, tie Series 2-2
Read full article: Stumbling stunner! Rays shock Dodgers in 9th, tie Series 2-2during the == inning in Game 4 of the baseball World Series Saturday, Oct. 24, 2020, in Arlington, Texas. Rays defeated the Dodgers 8-7 to tie the series 2-2 games. Those homers came during a frantic stretch when the teams combined to score in eight consecutive half-innings, a first in World Series history. It was the sixth consecutive World Series game for the Rays that their starter didn't finish at least five innings. His drive to straightaway center was his 12th career postseason homer, breaking a tie with Hall of Fame center fielder Duke Snider for the most in franchise history.
Buehler leads Dodgers over Rays 6-2 for 2-1 Series lead
Read full article: Buehler leads Dodgers over Rays 6-2 for 2-1 Series lead(AP Photo/Eric Gay)ARLINGTON, Texas – Walker Buehler pitched in the World Series like the Los Angeles Dodgers' aces of old. Buehler struck out 10 over six innings in a pulsating performance, and Los Angeles beat the Tampa Bay Rays 6-2 on Friday night for a 2-1 World Series lead. He became just the second player to drive in runs with both a homer and a sacrifice bunt in the same Series game. Steely-eyed like Hershiser, who won MVP honors of the 1988 Series, Buehler has supplanted Kershaw as the Dodgers’ ace. He has allowed one run in 13 Series innings that include seven scoreless in Game 3 against Boston two years ago.
World Series Notebook: Urías, 4-0 in postseason, set for G4
Read full article: World Series Notebook: Urías, 4-0 in postseason, set for G4The left-hander finished that series with three perfect innings, the last two protecting a 4-3 lead in Game 7 and sending LA to the World Series against Tampa Bay. Yarbrough threw 19 pitches out of the bullpen in Game 1 of the World Series. “I’m going to throw until they take the ball out of my hands,” Yarbrough said. That’s how you win a World Series,” said Dodgers right fielder Mookie Betts, who was part of the Red Sox when they beat Los Angeles in the World Series two years ago. Turner's 75th career postseason hit was a double that set up Max Muncy's two-run single in the third.
LEADING OFF: Dodgers turn to Jansen, bullpen for Game 2
Read full article: LEADING OFF: Dodgers turn to Jansen, bullpen for Game 2A look at what's happening around the majors Wednesday:___BULLPEN SAVEDThe Dodgers were so good in Game 1 of the World Series, they helped themselves for Game 2. Top relievers Kenley Jansen, Blake Treinen and Brusdar Graterol should all be fresh for a bullpen game against Tampa Bay after they weren't needed in an 8-3 win Tuesday. Jansen has more blown saves (three) than conversions (two) in two previous World Series and also struggled this fall, but he seemed to have himself righted by the end of the NLCS. Manager Kevin Cash — uncharacteristically slow to pull starter Tyler Glasnow in Game 1 — also has fresh arms in the bullpen. After separating his troubled right shoulder while bumping forearms celebrating his go-ahead homer in NLCS Game 7, the Dodgers slugger touched feet with teammates after going deep in the World Series opener Tuesday.
LEADING OFF: Rookie pitchers set for NLCS Game 7, Rays in WS
Read full article: LEADING OFF: Rookie pitchers set for NLCS Game 7, Rays in WS(AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)A look at what’s happening around the majors Sunday:___SEVENTH HEAVENThe NL Championship Series is headed for Game 7, and the finale could hinge on the performance of two rookie right-handers. If Tony Gonsolin goes for the Los Angeles Dodgers on Sunday night, it will be the first winner-take-all postseason game started by two rookies. It's just the second NLCS to go the distance in 15 seasons and the first time since 2004 that both league championship series have gone seven games. The Rays clinched their second trip to the Fall Classic with a 4-2 win over Houston in the AL Championship Series on Saturday night at Petco Park in San Diego. Ace Tyler Glasnow is lined up to start the opener for the Rays against the Braves-Dodgers winner in Game 7 of the NLCS.
Seager homers again, Dodgers force NLCS Game 7 with 3-1 win
Read full article: Seager homers again, Dodgers force NLCS Game 7 with 3-1 winSeager homered again, Buehler pitched six scoreless innings and the Dodgers beat the Atlanta Braves 3-1 on Saturday to send the NL Championship Series to a winner-take-all finale. “I’m still sort of recovering from this one, but already thinking about Game 7,” Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said. A Game 7 is another baseball game,” Atlanta manager Brian Snitker said. His six homers overall are already a Dodgers postseason record. But he walked five batters in a game Atlanta held on to win 8-7.
Jansen shows signs of old self as Dodgers try to stay alive
Read full article: Jansen shows signs of old self as Dodgers try to stay aliveARLINGTON, Texas – Though Kenley Jansen never lost confidence in himself, the big right-hander might be regaining that from the Los Angeles Dodgers after an inconsistent stretch. That came two days after another 1-2-3 inning in a midgame appearance for LA in a 15-3 win. In the ninth inning Friday night, Jansen threw 10 strikes and got three swinging strikeouts. “I thought the tempo, I thought the delivery was cleaned up, it was a little bit more smooth. The 33-year-old 3-time All-Star, whose velocity had been noticeably down and his control inconsistent, said they went over how his delivery wasn't the same as it had been when he was dominating hitters.
Smith off Smith, Seager 2 HRs as Dodgers beat Braves in NLCS
Read full article: Smith off Smith, Seager 2 HRs as Dodgers beat Braves in NLCS(AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)ARLINGTON, Texas – One Will Smith outdid another Will Smith to keep the season alive for the Los Angeles Dodgers. The four homers are already a record for a shortstop in any postseason series. Minter struck out seven of the 10 batters he faced as the first pitcher in MLB history whose first start came in a postseason game. The last was Steve Yeager in Game 5 of the 1981 World Series of Ron Guidry of the New York Yankees. The other was Roy Campanella, who did it twice: in Game 3 of the 1953 World Series and Game 3 of the 1955 World Series.
11-spot: Dodgers huge 1st in 15-3 win over Braves in NLCS
Read full article: 11-spot: Dodgers huge 1st in 15-3 win over Braves in NLCSThe Dodgers set franchise postseason records for runs and home runs with five, cutting their NLCS deficit to 2 games to 1. Winner Julio Urías, made his first postseason start and improved to 3-0 in these playoffs, striking out five while allowing one run and three hits over five innings. LOT OF BIG NUMBERSThe 15 runs matched the most in an NLCS game — the Braves beat the St. Louis Cardinals 15-0 in Game 7 of the 1996 NLCS. ... Only the Chicago Cubs, with six in Game 3 of the 2015 NLDS, hit more homers in any postseason game. The Dodgers’ eight extra-base hits matched the franchise record for a postseason game, and their 18 total bases in the first were an MLB record for an inning.
LEADING OFF: Rays' Snell, Astros' Valdez meet in ALCS opener
Read full article: LEADING OFF: Rays' Snell, Astros' Valdez meet in ALCS openerThe Rays are seeking revenge after Houston beat them in five games in the AL Division Series last year. The Astros are in the ALCS for the fourth straight year, looking for a third trip to the World Series in that span. The Rays are trying to get to their second World Series after losing to the Philadelphia Phillies in 2008. ANOTHER EARLY OFFSEASONAfter finishing its 11th consecutive season without a World Series, the Yankees and general manager Brian Cashman face a series of key decisions. New York has a $17 million option on pitcher J.A.
LEADING OFF: Rays' Snell, Astros' Valdez meet in ALCS opener
Read full article: LEADING OFF: Rays' Snell, Astros' Valdez meet in ALCS openerThe Rays are seeking revenge after Houston beat them in five games in the AL Division Series last year. The Astros are in the ALCS for the fourth straight year, looking for a third trip to the World Series in that span. The Rays are trying to get to their second World Series after losing to the Philadelphia Phillies in 2008. ANOTHER EARLY OFFSEASONAfter finishing its 11th consecutive season without a World Series, the Yankees and general manager Brian Cashman face a series of key decisions. New York has a $17 million option on pitcher J.A.
Jansen shaky, role as Dodgers closer muddled going into NLCS
Read full article: Jansen shaky, role as Dodgers closer muddled going into NLCSThat has become an uncomfortable question for manager Dave Roberts and the Dodgers as they prepare for another NL Championship Series. The best-of-seven NLCS against the Atlanta Braves starts Monday night in the Texas Rangers' new $1.2 billion stadium with a retractable roof. After averaging 93-94 mph earlier this season, the 33-year-old Jansen rarely got above 90 mph on those 30 pitches. Asked bluntly this week if Jansen could be trusted in a high-leverage situation right now, Roberts responded, “Certainly leverage matters. When he gets the baseball, I’m going to expect him to get those outs, and I know he expects the same.”Whenever that is.
LEADING OFF: Homers fly in playoffs, Atlanta arms dominate
Read full article: LEADING OFF: Homers fly in playoffs, Atlanta arms dominateThat average of 2.93 homers per postseason game tops the regular-season mark of 2.57. The Athletics and Astros combined to connect seven times as the A’s avoided a sweep with a 9-7 win. Houston will make another attempt to advance to its fourth consecutive ALCS in Game 4 on Thursday at Dodger Stadium. Kyle Wright will make his postseason debut when he starts against Miami rookie Sixto Sanchez as Atlanta aims to sweep the best-of-five NL Division Series. ESPN’s wild-card game averaged 5,591,000 to 7,604,000 from 2014-17.
Bellinger robs Padres as Dodgers hold on for 2-0 NLDS lead
Read full article: Bellinger robs Padres as Dodgers hold on for 2-0 NLDS lead“It’s going to take a while to wind down from that one,” said Bellinger, the 2019 NL MVP. “Certainly turned out being the difference in the game,” Padres rookie manager Jayce Tingler said. Leading off the next inning, Bellinger went after a low pitch and drove it 433 feet to center to make it 4-1. When the Dodgers went to bat after Bellinger's catch, Justin Turner had a sacrifice fly and Muncy his second RBI single to make it 6-3. I’ll keep thinking through it.”HOMER NOTESThe Padres became the first team in 20 games this postseason to lose when outhomering their opponent.
Padres get back Mike Clevinger, Dodgers add pitcher for NLDS
Read full article: Padres get back Mike Clevinger, Dodgers add pitcher for NLDSLos Angeles Dodgers relief pitcher Dylan Floro works against the Colorado Rockies during the sixth inning of a baseball game Thursday, Sept. 17, 2020, in Denver. While Clevinger was among the 15 pitchers on the Padres roster released Tuesday, fellow starter Dinelson Lamet was again left off because of injury. The Dodgers added a pitcher to their roster for the NLDS, where they will have 14 pitchers and 14 position players after carrying only 13 pitchers for the first round series against Milwaukee. Right-handed reliever Dylan Floro (3-0, 2.59 ERA) was the pitcher added for the longer NLDS. The Padres last week became the first team to use eight or more pitchers in three consecutive playoff games.
No days off puts stress on pitchers in Division Series, LCS
Read full article: No days off puts stress on pitchers in Division Series, LCS(AP Photo/David Dermer)NEW YORK – Postseason games come at an unprecedented pace starting Monday in this year of the pandemic. Teams could play the Division Series over five straight days, take a single day off and then contest the League Championship Series on seven consecutive days. The last to pitch for seven straight days was San Francisco’s Steve Kline from July 31 to Aug. 6, 2007. The League Championship Series has had a 2-3-2 format since 1985, with days off between Games 2 and 3, then another between Games 5 and 6. To start twice in the Division Series, Game 1 pitchers would have to come back on three days' rest.
Kershaw Ks 13 as Dodgers eliminate Brewers 3-0
Read full article: Kershaw Ks 13 as Dodgers eliminate Brewers 3-0Los Angeles Dodgers starting pitcher Clayton Kershaw, left, high-fives Justin Turner after the team's 3-0 win over the Milwaukee Brewers in Game 2 of a National League wild-card baseball series Thursday, Oct. 1, 2020, in Los Angeles. Kershaw, a three-time NL Cy Young Award winner, showed none of the fallibility that's plagued his postseason career. Only two of the Dodgers' nine hitters didn't strike out during that span; five of the Brewers didn't. As if the Brewers didn't have enough injuries already, catcher Jacob Nottingham got hurt and left the game in the sixth. Dodgers: Open the NL Division Series on Tuesday in Arlington, Texas.
Seager homers, Dodgers beat Brewers 4-2 in playoff opener
Read full article: Seager homers, Dodgers beat Brewers 4-2 in playoff openerThe Los Angeles Dodgers celebrate a 4-2 win over the Milwaukee Brewers in Game 1 of a National League wild-card baseball series Wednesday, Sept. 30, 2020, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Ashley Landis)LOS ANGELES – The Los Angeles Dodgers' powerful lineup went mostly quiet against the Milwaukee Brewers. Mookie Betts had two hits and an RBI and Corey Seager homered in the Dodgers' 4-2 victory in the opener of their NL playoff Wednesday night. The eight-time NL West champion Dodgers capitalized early in a bullpen game for the Brewers and can wrap up the best-of-three series Thursday. “A walk is just as good as a hit sometimes, which we showed in the first inning,” Seager said.
Gonsolin cools off Padres, Rios homers in Dodgers' 3-1 win
Read full article: Gonsolin cools off Padres, Rios homers in Dodgers' 3-1 winLos Angeles Dodgers' Edwin Rios reacts as he crosses home plate after hitting a solo home run against the San Diego Padres starting pitcher Zach Davies in the fifth inning of a baseball game Tuesday, Sept. 15, 2020, in San Diego. The Padres, cruising toward a berth in the expanded playoffs, lost for just the third time in 15 games. Gonsolin (1-1) held the Padres to one run and four hits, struck out two and walked none. The 26-year-old rookie kept the Padres off balance except for the third, when they manufactured one run. Both of his decisions came against San Diego.
Betts homers, Dodgers beat Astros 8-1; LA fans still sore
Read full article: Betts homers, Dodgers beat Astros 8-1; LA fans still soreLos Angeles Dodgers' Mookie Betts, right, gets congratulations from Enrique Hernandez, after Betts hits a two-run home run against the Houston Astros during the fifth inning of a baseball game in Los Angeles, Sunday, Sept. 13, 2020. (AP Photo/Alex Gallardo)LOS ANGELES – Mookie Betts’ two-run homer highlighted a four-run fifth inning, Chris Taylor added a three-run shot, and the Dodgers defeated Houston 8-1 on Sunday night with angry Los Angeles fans letting the Astros have it again. For the second straight day, the Astros were bombarded with messages towed by planes over Dodger Stadium. Go Dodgers” and “Hey Astros Try Stealing This Sign!” read others. Dodgers: Begin a three-game series at San Diego on Monday in a showdown between the NL West's top teams.
Astros rally to beat Dodgers 7-5 despite angry LA fans
Read full article: Astros rally to beat Dodgers 7-5 despite angry LA fansBregman scored on Yuri Gurriel's sacrifice fly to center off Adam Kolarek for a 7-5 lead. The Astros improved to 7-17 on the road after coming in with losses in eight of their previous nine games. But there were multiple reminders that Dodger fans haven’t forgotten the Astros’ cheating scandal from their championship three years ago. Fans aren't allowed inside this season because of the coronavirus, but a group of Dodger supporters greeted the Astros' bus as it pulled in. Dodgers: RHP Dustin May, who took a line drive off his left foot in Arizona, had a CT scan that revealed a contusion but no fracture.
Donovan Solano slugs Giants past Dodgers in 11th inning 10-8
Read full article: Donovan Solano slugs Giants past Dodgers in 11th inning 10-8Los Angeles Dodgers' Max Muncy, right, celebrates with Justin Turner, second from left, and A.J. Sam Selman (1-0) recorded the final out in the top of the 11th for the victory. Justin Turner began on second base in the 10th inning and scored the go-ahead run on Bart's wild throw past third immediately after a passed ball. The Dodgers flew late in the day to the Bay Area to give players time for treatment or optional workouts. ... RHP Jeff Samardzija, sidelined by inflammation in his throwing shoulder, is throwing on flat ground and is scheduled for his first bullpen Wednesday.