The Los Angeles Dodgers ended their four-game losing streak this weekend with a critical sweep over the San Diego Padres, reclaiming the National League West division lead. Entering the series, the Dodgers had struggled since the All-Star break, going 10-14, while the Padres had risen to the top, threatening to extend their advantage.
On Sunday, the Dodgers turned the tide with key contributions from former MVPs Freddie Freeman and Mookie Betts, both of whom had battled slumps earlier in the season. Their resurgence pushed the Dodgers to a 5–4 win, the third straight victory over the Padres during the series.
Early Power from Freeman Sets the Tone, Betts Delivers Game-Winning Blast
Freddie Freeman gave the Dodgers an early edge with a three-run home run in the first inning, establishing momentum. Despite San Diego leveling the score by the top of the eighth, Mookie Betts produced a decisive clutch home run against Padres All-Star closer Robert Suarez, sealing the victory.
Betts had been struggling this season, hitting a career-low .242, and had not recorded a hit in the series until his game-winning shot. His timely homer not only ended the game but injected confidence back into the team during a critical moment.
Mookie Betts Reflects on His Crucial Contribution and Recent Performance
After the game, Betts acknowledged the relief and importance of his clutch homer.
“It’s about time I did something,”
he said to Kirsten Watson of SportsNet LA.
“It’s been all year, I’m just glad I was able to help the team win. … It felt great. I really haven’t been driving the ball, last couple of games have been a lot better, hopefully we can turn the corner.”
Freeman praised Betts’ effort and impact, emphasizing his teammate’s recent improvement.
“I think Mookie’s been very good for a couple weeks now,”
Freeman said.
“Anything he can take with confidence-wise, that was huge. 2-0 fastball, and he was able to stay through it, backspin the ball and hit it over the fence in a big situation. … Mookie Betts is gonna be Mookie Betts, and no one here is worried about him. Good to see him get some results, he’s been working hard.”
Freeman also highlighted the weekend’s overall strong play:
“Quality weekend of baseball that we played.”
The Road Ahead: Maintaining Momentum Against San Diego in Final Series
While this sweep represents a significant turnaround, the Dodgers’ hold on the division lead remains tenuous. They face a crucial test next weekend with their last regular-season series against San Diego at Petco Park. A strong showing there could further solidify their position atop the NL West, making this road series pivotal to their playoff aspirations.
The performances from stars like Betts and Freeman provide renewed hope and determination as the Dodgers aim to close the season strong and compete for the division title.