Yamamoto Leads Dodgers Past Reds to Secure Spot in NL Division Series
t he reigning World Series champions move on to their 20th NLDS appearance — and their 13th consecutive — where they will face the Philadelphia Phillies starting Saturday in Philadelphia. The teams last met in the postseason back in 2009, when the Phillies knocked out the Dodgers in the NL Championship Series for the second straight year.
Dodgers Offense Shines with Small Ball Strategy
After launching five home runs in their Game 1 win, the Dodgers adjusted their approach and delivered 13 hits in Game 2, relying on timely hitting and aggressive base running. Mookie Betts led the way, going 4 for 5 with three doubles, tying a franchise postseason record.
“We’ve got to continue to pitch, timely hitting and play defense, and everything should be OK,” Betts said, expressing confidence about the team’s playoff run.
Yamamoto Dominates After Shaky Start
After giving up two runs in the first inning, Yamamoto retired 13 consecutive Reds hitters. The Japanese right-hander showed elite control and composure, especially in the sixth when the Reds loaded the bases with no outs.
Austin Hays grounded into a fielder’s choice, with Betts throwing out a runner at home. Yamamoto then struck out Sal Stewart and Elly De La Cruz to escape the jam. He walked off the mound to a standing ovation from the 50,465 fans at Dodger Stadium.
“I was just trying to bring my everything out there,” Yamamoto said through a translator.
Bullpen Wobbles Late, But Holds On
The Dodgers bullpen gave up two runs in the eighth, allowing the Reds to bring the tying run to the plate. Alex Vesia eventually struck out Friedl looking to end the inning. Rookie Roki Sasaki closed the game in the ninth, flashing 101 mph heat and striking out two.
Big Sixth Inning Seals the Win
Shohei Ohtani broke an 0-for-9 slump with an RBI single to start a four-run sixth inning. Betts followed with an RBI double, and Teoscar Hernández drove in two more with a shot down the left-field line, extending the lead to 7–2.
Yamamoto finished with two runs allowed on four hits and two walks over 6.2 innings, throwing a career-high 113 pitches — the most by a Dodger in postseason play since Walker Buehler's 117 in 2019.
Looking Ahead: Dodgers vs. Phillies in NLDS
With the Reds eliminated, the Dodgers shift their focus to the Phillies in what promises to be a high-stakes showdown. Game 1 of the NLDS kicks off Saturday in Philadelphia.
