Heading into Game 2 of the National League Championship Series, the Los Angeles Dodgers were on the verge of setting an MLB record with 33 straight scoreless innings pitched in the postseason, tying the 1966 Baltimore Orioles. However, a leadoff home run from New York Mets shortstop Francisco Lindor ended their bid. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts praised the team’s pitching staff, defense, coaching, and front office for their roles in preventing runs and supporting the pitchers.
Following a rough inning against the San Diego Padres in Game 3 of the NLDS, the Dodgers bounced back with an incredible streak of 33 consecutive scoreless innings pitched by 12 different pitchers. This impressive effort allowed them to come from behind and win the series against the Padres, before also shutting out the Mets in Game 1 of the NLCS. The Dodgers became one of only three teams to pitch three consecutive postseason shutouts and even threw a perfect game within the streak, retiring 28 consecutive batters.
The Dodgers’ remarkable pitching performance during the postseason shut down two of the top-ranked offenses in the league, the Padres and the Mets, who were known for their high batting averages and strong offensive capabilities. Despite injuries to key pitchers like Tyler Glasnow and Clayton Kershaw, as well as others sidelined, the Dodgers managed to stifle opposing hitters and maintain their defensive prowess. The team’s resilience and depth were on full display as they navigated through the postseason.
Despite facing challenges with injuries to several pitching staff members, the Dodgers continued to deliver dominant performances on the mound, showcasing their depth and adaptability. Players like Gavin Stone and Joe Kelly, important contributors to the team, were sidelined with injuries, while Shohei Ohtani was focused on his hitting as he recovered from Tommy John surgery. The Dodgers were able to overcome these setbacks and rely on their collective pitching staff to keep opponents off the scoreboard.
The Dodgers’ pitching success was a product of a team effort, with contributions from players, coaches, and the front office all playing integral roles in developing strategies and providing support to the pitchers. Manager Dave Roberts highlighted the cohesive nature of the team and the dedication of everyone involved in the pitching staff. The Dodgers’ ability to execute their game plan and make critical defensive plays helped them achieve historic milestones and shut down potent offenses in the postseason.
The Dodgers’ pitching performance during the postseason was highlighted by their record-tying streak of consecutive scoreless innings and three straight shutouts, showcasing their dominance on the mound. Despite facing formidable opponents and dealing with injuries to key players, the team showed resilience and depth in their pitching staff to stay ahead in the playoffs. The Dodgers’ success was a testament to their teamwork, strategy, and defensive excellence, setting the stage for an exciting playoff run as they continued their quest for a World Series championship.
