Dodgers Sweep Reds to Reach NL Division Series as Mookie Betts and Yamamoto Shine
The Los Angeles Dodgers punched their ticket to the National League Division Series (NLDS) on Wednesday night, completing a clean sweep of the Cincinnati Reds with a commanding 8-4 victory at Dodger Stadium. Powered by standout performances from Mookie Betts and pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto, the defending World Series champions showed once again why they remain among the top contenders in October baseball.
Dodgers Rally After Early Setback
It wasn’t the perfect start for Los Angeles. The Reds jumped out to a 2-0 lead in the first inning, capitalizing on defensive miscues from the Dodgers. For a moment, the visitors looked ready to force a third game in the NL Wild Card series.
But the Dodgers responded quickly. Veteran star Mookie Betts, who has endured a challenging season by his own standards, stepped up on the big stage. Betts delivered four hits and three RBIs, including three doubles, helping erase the early deficit and shift momentum firmly in LA’s favor.
“Just happy I can help the boys win and contribute,” Betts said postgame. “It’s better late than never. I went through arguably one of the worst years of my career, but it made me mentally tougher. Now my focus is on winning, not on myself.”
Yamamoto Dominates on the Mound
While Betts provided the spark at the plate, Yoshinobu Yamamoto dominated from the mound. The Japanese ace struck out nine batters and allowed only four hits across 6.2 innings, silencing Cincinnati’s offense and giving the Dodgers room to take control of the game.
Yamamoto’s poise was crucial in steadying LA after their shaky opening inning. His ability to mix pitches and work the strike zone kept Reds hitters off balance, reinforcing the Dodgers’ reputation for elite pitching depth.
Shohei Ohtani, who inspired the Dodgers to victory in Game 1 with key contributions at the plate, went 1-for-4 on Wednesday. While quieter in Game 2, his presence continues to energize both teammates and fans as the Dodgers eye another championship run.
Dodgers Now Face Phillies in NLDS
The sweep means the Dodgers now advance to face the Philadelphia Phillies in the next round. Game 1 of the NLDS is set for Saturday night in Philadelphia, a matchup already being billed as one of the marquee clashes of the postseason.
“I know we can win the whole thing,” Betts said confidently. “We just have to play good baseball. If we keep pitching well, get timely hits, and play strong defense, everything will be OK.”
The Dodgers, who lifted the 2024 World Series trophy, are aiming for a repeat. With a balanced roster, playoff experience, and momentum from the Wild Card sweep, they enter the series against Philadelphia with confidence, though they’ll face a Phillies team hungry to dethrone them.
Yankees Force Game 3 in AL Wild Card Series
While the Dodgers celebrated, drama unfolded on the American League (AL) side. The New York Yankees kept their season alive with a 4-3 win over the Boston Red Sox, leveling their series and forcing a decisive Game 3.
The hero of the night was Jazz Chisholm Jr., who had been benched in Game 1. Clearly motivated, Chisholm delivered both defensively and offensively, showcasing his trademark energy. His defining moment came in the bottom of the eighth inning when he scored from first base on an Austin Wells hit. Sprinting around the bases, Chisholm dove headfirst into home plate, beating the throw in dramatic fashion.
According to MLB.com, he covered the distance from first to home in just 9.16 seconds, a display of raw athleticism that had Yankee Stadium roaring.
“What do you expect? The guy is a game-changer,” said Yankees captain Aaron Judge. “He showed maturity by taking what happened the day before and turning it into motivation. Tonight, he made the biggest plays for us.”
Ben Rice also contributed with a two-run homer in the first inning during his postseason debut, giving the Yankees the platform they needed to edge Boston. Game 3 will now be played Thursday night in New York, with everything on the line.
Other Results Across MLB
In other postseason action on Wednesday:
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San Diego Padres leveled their Wild Card series against the Chicago Cubs, winning 3-0 behind strong pitching and clutch hitting.
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The Cleveland Guardians forced a deciding Game 3 against the Detroit Tigers with a convincing 6-1 victory.
Both series remain finely balanced, adding to the excitement of a playoff schedule filled with unpredictability and high-stakes drama.
Dodgers’ Focus on a Repeat
For the Dodgers, however, the job is far from done. While eliminating the Reds in a two-game sweep boosts confidence, the true test comes against teams like Philadelphia and potentially the Atlanta Braves further down the line.
Still, their combination of playoff-tested veterans like Betts and Ohtani, rising stars, and elite pitching gives them the tools to chase another championship.
Betts summed it up best: “It’s not about me anymore. It’s about winning games. That’s all that matters in October.”
With the Phillies waiting, fans can expect another intense chapter in what is shaping up to be one of the most compelling MLB postseasons in recent memory.