**Freeman Leads Dodgers To Game 3 Victory**

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Post on Oct 29, 2024

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Freeman Leads Dodgers to Game 3 Victory, Extending Series Lead

The Los Angeles Dodgers extended their series lead to 2-1 in the National League Division Series (NLDS) with a resounding 7-2 victory over the San Diego Padres in Game 3 at Petco Park. The key to the Dodgers' success? Freddie Freeman's dominance.

Freeman, who has been a consistent force throughout the season, lived up to his reputation in Game 3. He went 3-for-4 with a homer, a double, and three RBIs, providing the offensive spark the Dodgers needed. His three-run home run in the 5th inning broke open the game and put the Padres in a deep hole they couldn't escape.

"I'm just trying to go out there and be the best hitter I can be," Freeman said after the game. "It's a team effort, and I'm just happy to contribute."

The Dodgers, however, didn't rely solely on Freeman's heroics. Mookie Betts and Will Smith also provided offensive firepower, each collecting two hits and driving in runs.

On the mound, Clayton Kershaw delivered a solid performance, pitching 5.1 innings while allowing two runs and striking out seven. Although he struggled with command early on, Kershaw managed to settle down and keep the Padres' offense in check.

"Clayton [Kershaw] threw the ball well," Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said. "He was able to get out of some jams and keep us in the game."

While the Padres battled back from an early deficit and even tied the game in the 4th inning, they couldn't sustain the momentum. Blake Snell struggled on the mound for the Padres, surrendering five runs in just 3.2 innings. The Padres' offense, which had been hot in the first two games of the series, went cold in Game 3, managing just five hits.

"We just didn't get the bats going," Padres manager Bob Melvin said. "We need to find a way to get back in this series."

The Dodgers will look to close out the series in Game 4, with the Padres desperately needing a win to stay alive. The battle for Los Angeles is far from over, but Freeman's performance in Game 3 has given the Dodgers a significant advantage.