Dodgers Dominate Reds 10–5 in NL Wild Card Game 1 – Highlights & Analysis

 Dodgers Overpower Reds 10–5 in NL Wild Card Game 1: A Detailed Breakdown

The Los Angeles Dodgers showcased their postseason prowess with a commanding 10–5 victory over the Cincinnati Reds in Game 1 of the 2025 National League Wild Card Series at Dodger Stadium on September 30. This win sets the tone for the series, with the Dodgers leading 1–0.

Starting Pitching: Snell's Dominance

Blake Snell took the mound for the Dodgers and delivered a stellar performance. Over seven innings, he allowed just four hits and two earned runs while striking out nine batters. Snell's control was evident, as he issued only one walk, keeping the Reds' offense at bay and setting up his team for success.

Reds' Starter Struggles

In contrast, Reds' starter Hunter Greene faced early challenges. He lasted only three innings, surrendering five earned runs on six hits. Greene's inability to find his rhythm early put the Reds in a difficult position, from which they couldn't recover.

Dodgers' Offensive Explosion

The Dodgers' offense was relentless, with multiple players contributing to the scoreboard:

Shohei Ohtani: Ohtani led off the game with a towering 375-foot home run to right field, setting the tone for the evening. He added another homer in the sixth inning, a 454-foot blast to right center, finishing with two hits and two RBIs.

T. Hernández: Hernández had a standout game, hitting a three-run homer in the third inning and another solo shot in the fifth, totaling four RBIs.

Edman: Edman contributed with a solo homer in the third inning, further extending the Dodgers' lead.

Freeman and Muncy: Both players were on base during Hernández's first homer, showcasing the depth of the Dodgers' lineup.

Reds' Late Rally

While the game was largely in the Dodgers' control, the Reds mounted a late rally in the seventh inning. Elly De La Cruz grounded into a fielder's choice, allowing Hayes to score. Later, Tyler Stephenson doubled to left, bringing De La Cruz home. A throwing error by right fielder Marte on a single by Call allowed Rojas to score, and Rortvedt's single brought Call home, narrowing the deficit to 10–5. However, the Reds couldn't push further, and the Dodgers secured the win.

Game Summary

Final Score: Dodgers 10, Reds 5

Winning Pitcher: Blake Snell (1–0)

Losing Pitcher: Hunter Greene (0–1)

Attendance: 50,555 at Dodger Stadium

Game Time: 3 hours, 8 minutes

What's Next?

With the Dodgers leading the series 1–0, Game 2 is scheduled for October 1 at 6:08 PM PDT. The Reds will look to even the series, while the Dodgers aim to take a commanding 2–0 lead.

For more details, including box scores and play-by-play coverage, visit the ESPN Game Recap.

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