Dodgers Celebrate World Series Victory Within Reach
NEW YORK — Eight days ago, Dave Roberts, manager of the Los Angeles Dodgers, rallied the crowd at Dodger Stadium, calling for celebrations with the promise of a parade in Los Angeles. His call to action came after the Dodgers won the National League pennant, and now, following their 4-2 victory over the New York Yankees in Game 3 of the World Series, they stand just one win away from securing a championship, contrasting sharply with the 2020 title scarred by COVID-19.
Game Highlights and Player Performances
The Dodgers have asserted dominance in the series, winning all three games thus far. “You couldn’t ask for a better start in these three games,” said Dodgers first baseman Freddie Freeman. On Monday, the Dodgers never trailed, with Freeman initiating the scoring with a two-run homer in the first inning. Walker Buehler excelled on the mound, allowing only two hits over five scoreless innings, while Yankees starter Clarke Schmidt struggled to finish the third inning due to the pressure. The Dodgers’ bullpen maintained the momentum, and now, they prepare to enter Game 4, tasked with closing out the series against New York’s Luis Gil.
The Yankees are facing historic challenges, having never come back from a 3-0 deficit in World Series history. The atmosphere shifted as Yankees captain Aaron Judge and his teammates fell short, despite Judge being a likely MVP, struggling in Game 3 with no hits in three at-bats.
Injury Concerns for Key Players
Following the tense moments in Los Angeles, one significant concern loomed over Game 3: the status of Shohei Ohtani, who sustained a shoulder injury attempting to steal a base in Game 2. Fortunately, after testing his shoulder pain, Ohtani declared himself fit to play, starting the game and walking on four pitches in his first at-bat.
Amid Ohtani’s return, the Yankees’ Judge received cheers from fans, but his performance fell short, resulting in multiple strikeouts throughout the series. Ohtani did manage to contribute in the third inning, advancing a runner, showcasing the Dodgers’ strong teamwork and defensive plays.
Looking Ahead to Game 4
As Game 3 unfolded, Buehler, who had spent the last couple of years recovering from surgery, showcased his talent, striking out five batters and helping the Dodgers maintain their lead. “It makes the regular season worth it for me,” he expressed. With the Dodgers feeling the urgency of closing out the series, Roberts emphasized the importance of maintaining focus and not underestimating their opponents.
As excitement builds for a possible championship victory, the Dodgers recognize the thin line between triumph and defeat. “There’s got to be urgency. I don’t want to let these guys up for air,” Roberts noted, continuing to navigate the journey toward a potential parade in Los Angeles.
(Photo of Freddie Freeman: Luke Hales / Getty Images)
Source and credits: www.nytimes.com
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