The Los Angeles Dodgers came out of the All-Star break with a sweep of the San Francisco Giants but had their eight-game winning streak snapped in a 4-1 loss to the Washington Nationals on Monday.
The Nationals entered play with a 32-65 record, which was the worst mark in all of baseball. “I don’t know that answer,” Dodgers manager Dave Roberts answered when asked why the team has struggled against sub-.500 opponents at times this season.
“I know that we came off a big series, but I know that’s not an excuse for us to essentially have a letdown and call it a letdown. I don’t think it was. I thought we came in prepared and they pitched us well.
“As far as teams kind of at the bottom of the standings, I don’t know the answer. I think we still have the mindset coming in. I wish I knew that answer.”
The Dodgers notably had their share of struggles against the Pittsburgh Pirates, who won two of three at PNC Park and then swept a series at Dodger Stadium.
The Dodgers additionally lost four of seven to the Philadelphia Phillies this season.
Soto appreciates Dodgers fans, but maintaining focus on Nationals
The Nationals being in town gave Dodgers fans another opportunity to recruit Juan Soto amid rumors he could be traded before the Aug. 2 deadline.
The 23-year-old was cheered throughout the night, which came on the heels of fans in the pavilion chanting “Future Dodger” during the All-Star Game. “It sounds pretty fun,” Soto said of the chanting.
“But at the end of the day I’m glad they cheered for me. I don’t mind whatever they say if they say something good. I’m just enjoying it. Obviously I was really surprised, but I was more surprised to play center field.”
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