The Los Angeles Dodgers made a powerful statement in their early-season clash with the Atlanta Braves, highlighted by Shohei Ohtani’s two home run performance that helped seal a series sweep. The Dodgers triumphed 5-1 on Sunday, concluding a dominant three-game set against one of their chief National League rivals.
The series kicked off with a nail-biting 4-3 Dodgers victory in 11 innings on Friday, followed by a resounding 11-2 win on Saturday. Ohtani was pivotal throughout, starting with a two-run homer in the first inning off Braves ace Max Fried on Sunday, and later adding a solo home run in the ninth to wrap up the scoring.
Dodgers pitcher James Paxton delivered a stellar performance on Sunday, allowing just one earned run over 6 2/3 innings, contributing to the team’s improved record of 23-13. This win extended their lead in the NL West, while the Braves, falling to 20-12, found themselves trailing in the NL East.
Ohtani was a constant threat in the series, going 8-for-12 with three home runs and six RBIs. His performance was capped off with a perfect 4-for-4 day at the plate on Sunday, including those two crucial home runs. This effort has positioned him among the leaders in several major batting categories, boasting a .364 average and 10 home runs.
The Dodgers inflicted further damage on Saturday when they hit five home runs, including three off Braves pitcher Bryce Elder, who gave up seven earned runs. Max Muncy also stood out with three home runs in Saturday’s victory.
As Ohtani’s first season with the Dodgers continues, his stats are impressive: a .364 batting average, a .685 slugging percentage, and 25 RBIs, making him a standout player in the league. The Dodgers and Braves won’t meet again until a four-game series in mid-September, which could play a crucial role in their playoff positioning.
Shohei with a homer in back-to-back games! pic.twitter.com/3fUkU4OCYI
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) May 5, 2024
Shohei Ohtani ties it in the 10th! pic.twitter.com/ES7ALRkeUl
— MLB (@MLB) May 4, 2024
Shohei Ohtani ties it in the 10th! pic.twitter.com/ES7ALRkeUl
— MLB (@MLB) May 4, 2024