Freeman's Hot Bat Propels Dodgers in Game 3
Los Angeles, CA - The Los Angeles Dodgers rode a hot bat from Freddie Freeman to a dominant 7-1 victory over the San Diego Padres in Game 3 of the NLDS on Tuesday night. Freeman, who had been struggling in the series, exploded for three hits, including a home run, and drove in four runs, leading the Dodgers to a much-needed win after dropping the first two games in San Diego.
Freeman Finds His Rhythm
After a quiet first two games, Freeman was a force to be reckoned with in Game 3. He singled in the first inning, doubled in the fourth, and launched a three-run home run in the sixth inning, effectively putting the game out of reach for the Padres. His offensive outburst provided the spark the Dodgers needed to regain control of the series.
“I just felt like I was a little too anxious in the first two games,” Freeman admitted after the game. “I just tried to relax, focus on my approach, and let the game come to me. It felt good to get some hits and help the team win.”
Dodgers Offense Explodes
While Freeman was the star of the show, the Dodgers' offense as a whole was firing on all cylinders. They collected 12 hits, including three doubles and a triple, and scored runs in five of the nine innings. Mookie Betts added two hits and two runs scored, while Max Muncy contributed a two-run single in the fourth inning.
Kershaw Dominates the Mound
Clayton Kershaw, pitching in Game 3 of a playoff series for the first time since 2017, delivered a vintage performance. He allowed just one run on five hits over six innings, striking out eight Padres hitters. Kershaw's performance was a welcome sight for the Dodgers, who had been struggling to find consistency from their starting pitching in the series.
Padres Struggle to Find Offense
The Padres, on the other hand, continued to struggle offensively. They managed only five hits and were shut out for the first six innings. The only run they scored came in the seventh inning when Manny Machado hit a solo home run.
Series Momentum Shifts
The Dodgers' victory in Game 3 shifted the momentum of the series back in their favor. They now have a chance to even the series on Wednesday night in Game 4. The Padres, meanwhile, face the daunting task of trying to win two games in a row in Los Angeles to avoid elimination.
With Freeman's hot bat, Kershaw's dominance, and a rejuvenated offense, the Dodgers are poised for a strong fight back. The Padres, however, know they still have the talent and the fire to fight their way back into the series. The stage is set for an exciting Game 4, with both teams eager to prove their worth.