Blake Snell Shines as Dodgers Secure Victory in Thrilling NLCS Opener

Blake Snell delivered an exceptional performance, allowing just one baserunner over eight shutout innings as the Los Angeles Dodgers triumphed over the Milwaukee Brewers 2-1 in the opening game of the National League Championship Series (NLCS) on Monday night.
Blake Snell’s Dominance
Snell struck out ten batters and threw 103 pitches, showcasing his ability as a two-time Cy Young Award winner. He allowed only one hit—a single by Caleb Durbin in the third inning—before retiring his final 17 batters. This remarkable feat made him the first pitcher to face only 24 batters through eight innings in a postseason game since Don Larsen’s perfect game in the 1956 World Series.
Decisive Moments
- Freddie Freeman broke the scoreless tie with a solo home run in the sixth inning.
- Mookie Betts secured an insurance run in the ninth with a bases-loaded walk.
- Blake Treinen struck out Brice Turang with the bases loaded to secure the win.
Game Recap
The Dodgers led 2-0 when they handed the ball to rookie Roki Sasaki in the ninth inning. However, Sasaki struggled, allowing a walk to Isaac Collins and a ground-rule double to Jake Bauers, which put pressure on the Dodgers’ bullpen. Jackson Chourio’s sacrifice fly scored Collins, and Christian Yelich’s walk set up a crucial moment with the bases loaded. Treinen was called upon to close out the game, following a nail-biting sequence that nearly resulted in a tying run.
Offensive Opportunities
- Freeman’s homer was his first of the postseason and came off reliever Chad Patrick.
- The Dodgers faced missed chances, including a bizarre bases-loaded double play.
Strategic Insights
Manager Dave Roberts emphasized the importance of trust regarding pitching decisions, as Snell accepted his removal from the game without protest. The matchup highlights the contrasting dynamics of the teams; while the Dodgers boast the highest payroll in MLB, the Brewers operate in the league’s smallest market.
Looking Ahead
Game 2 of the NLCS takes place on Tuesday night, with Los Angeles starting Yoshinobu Yamamoto against Milwaukee’s Freddy Peralta. As the series unfolds, the Dodgers aim to capitalize on this critical victory on the road, while the Brewers will seek to bounce back after a tough loss.