The Los Angeles Dodgers secured a vital sweep over the San Diego Padres on Sunday, with Mookie Betts delivering a game-winning homer that solidified their return to first place in the National League West. The three-game series took place as the Padres briefly held the division lead, pushing the Dodgers to respond with intensity.
After winning the opening two games decisively with an overall 9-2 scoreline, the Dodgers closed out the series with a narrow 5-4 victory, highlighted by Betts’ clutch performance in the eighth inning.
Freddie Freeman Energizes Dodgers’ Early Lead
Freddie Freeman set the tone immediately in Sunday’s game by launching a three-run home run in the first inning, driving in key runners Mookie Betts and Shohei Ohtani to give the Dodgers an early 3-0 advantage. The momentum continued when Andy Pages hit a solo homer shortly after, extending Los Angeles’ lead to 4-0 and putting pressure on the Padres from the outset.
Padres Mount a Determined Comeback
Despite the Dodgers’ strong start, the Padres fought back persistently, slowly closing the gap with runs in the third, fifth, and sixth innings. Their efforts peaked in the eighth inning, when Ramon Laureano’s double put runners in scoring position with just one out, forcing the Dodgers to make pitching changes. San Diego tied the game at 4-4 when Freddy Fermin grounded out during that inning, setting the stage for a dramatic finish.
Mookie Betts’ Clutch Homer Restores Dodgers’ Lead
Stepping up to bat with the score tied in the bottom of the eighth, Mookie Betts delivered a critical blow by sending a towering home run over the fence, instantly regaining the lead for the Dodgers. The crowd’s roar captured the significance of the moment, as Betts celebrated with his teammates and reinforced his reputation as a clutch performer on big occasions.
Victory Secures Dodgers’ Position atop NL West
By completing the sweep, the Dodgers not only avenged the Padres’ earlier division lead but also demonstrated their resilience and ability to perform under pressure. This win keeps their momentum strong as they continue to chase another World Series championship under manager Dave Roberts, reaffirming their status as the leading team in the National League West.
“The crowd erupted as Betts celebrated with his teammates, solidifying his status as a clutch performer.” —No attribution provided