Blake Snell delivered an impressive performance on Tuesday night, leading the Los Angeles Dodgers to a 9-1 victory over the Toronto Blue Jays and clinching the series. Shohei Ohtani also made headlines by hitting his 40th home run of the season, marking a significant milestone in his power-hitting career.
Blake Snell Shuts Down Blue Jays with Strong Start
Returning with momentum after a stint on the 60-day injured list, Blake Snell dominated Toronto’s lineup despite their status as the team with the lowest strikeout rate this season. Snell struck out 10 batters, a season-high for him, over five scoreless innings while allowing only three hits and issuing three bases on balls.
Snell encountered some challenges early, surrendering two doubles and issuing two walks in the third inning, yet managed to escape without allowing any runs thanks to two key strikeouts. This performance marked Snell’s 36th career game with double-digit strikeouts, though his personal best remains 15 strikeouts in a 2014 game against the Colorado Rockies.
Dodgers’ Offensive Power Expands with Key Homers
The Dodgers took a 2-0 lead due to Max Muncy’s opposite-field home run in the fourth inning, his third in just four games since returning from injury. Then, in the fifth inning, Shohei Ohtani showcased his continued power by blasting a solo homer, his 40th of the year. This achievement gives Ohtani three consecutive seasons with 40 or more home runs and four such seasons over the past five years.
Ohtani’s multiple 40-homer seasons place him in elite company among Dodgers hitters, joining legends like Duke Snider, who had five between 1953 and 1957; Gil Hodges, with two; and Shawn Green, who had two seasons with 40-plus homers in the early 2000s. Ohtani is currently just behind Kyle Schwarber, who leads the National League with 41 home runs.
Dodgers Pull Away with Six-Run Surge in Sixth Inning
The Dodgers extended their lead dramatically in the sixth, scoring six runs to break the game open. Dalton Rushing ended a long hitless drought with a two-run single that came with the bases loaded, ending an 0-for-16 skid and marking his first hit since late July.
A pitching change by Toronto failed to slow Los Angeles down as Mookie Betts followed an intentional walk to Ohtani by hitting a two-run line drive that eluded Buddy Kennedy’s glove and rolled into left field. Betts, improving his performance after a slump, has recorded five RBIs in his last four games.
Andy Pages brought the inning to a close, adding a two-run double for his second hit of the inning, helping to secure the decisive lead for the Dodgers.
Significance of the Win and Player Performances
Blake Snell’s dominant outing and Shohei Ohtani’s milestone home run highlight the Dodgers’ rising form as they push further into the season. Ohtani’s power display not only underscores his value to the team but also positions him as a top home run contender in the National League this year.
The team’s strong offensive bursts, especially during the critical sixth inning, demonstrate their ability to capitalize on opportunities and expand leads effectively. Snell’s return to form as a starting pitcher provides added depth to the Dodgers’ rotation as they chase postseason success.
“Shohei’s consistency with 40 homers over multiple seasons really speaks to his exceptional talent and dedication.” —Max Muncy, First Baseman