The Philadelphia Phillies shook off an early drought and stormed back for a 9-6 victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers, overcoming Shohei Ohtani’s dominant opening act and tightening their grip on the National League’s top playoff seed. The win improved Philadelphia to 91-61 and snapped another late-inning stand by the Dodgers’ bullpen.
Ohtani Dazzles Before Exit
Dodgers two-way star Shohei Ohtani held the Phillies hitless through five innings, striking out five and allowing only one walk. He later blasted his 50th homer of the season in the eighth, joining a short list of players to reach the 50-homer plateau in consecutive years. Ohtani left after 68 pitches, but his early brilliance couldn’t protect Los Angeles once the relief corps took over.
Phillies’ Sixth-Inning Surge
Philadelphia erupted for six runs in the sixth inning as soon as Ohtani departed. Brandon Marsh and Max Kepler each homered during the rally, turning a quiet night into a sudden offensive showcase that put the Phillies ahead for the first time.
Marchán’s Game-Winning Blast
The Dodgers clawed back to tie the score 6-6 behind Ohtani’s solo shot and an Alex Call sacrifice fly in the eighth. With two outs in the ninth, Rafael Marchán delivered the decisive blow—a three-run homer off Blake Treinen—to seal the comeback.
Key Numbers
- Cristopher Sánchez worked seven innings for Philadelphia, scattering seven hits and allowing four earned runs while striking out six.
- The Phillies added insurance runs in both the eighth and ninth innings, proving their offense wasn’t limited to the sixth-inning breakout.
- Despite the setback, Los Angeles still holds a two-game cushion atop the NL West.
Looking Ahead
The series concludes Wednesday, with Jesús Luzardo scheduled to start for the Phillies against Dodgers left-hander Blake Snell. Philadelphia remains focused on locking down home-field advantage as the postseason approaches.
The Phillies’ ability to overcome Ohtani’s dominance and a late Dodgers rally underscored their depth and resilience—qualities that could make them the team to beat when October baseball begins.
