The Los Angeles Dodgers shifted plans from starting Michael Grove and instead turned to a bullpen game that worked out masterfully in a 2-0 win over the Los Angeles Angels to complete a Freeway Series sweep.
Brusdar Graterol pitched two hitless innings as the opener, and although any thought of a combined no-hitter was quickly dashed, a stable of Dodgers relief pitchers followed him with more scoreless work.
Victor González faced some early trouble as he allowed a leadoff double to Luis Rengifo, who eventually advanced to third base. But Rengifo was then thrown out at home plate by David Peralta for an inning-ending double play.
David Peralta to Will Smith! pic.twitter.com/0cK1qc5W4p
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) June 22, 2023
Welcome to the Freddie Freeman Sho. pic.twitter.com/4R28qmcGTg
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) June 22, 2023
Miggy homer? Loup, there it is. pic.twitter.com/KAC673hBNV
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) June 22, 2023
Graterol
González
Almonte
Vesia
Brasier
Ferguson
PhillipsWhat a performance from the bullpen. 🔥 pic.twitter.com/OCBl7tlMAH
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) June 22, 2023
Just like when the Dodgers got a key out at home on Tuesday night, Peralta’s outfield assist immediately led to offense. Freddie Freeman broke the scoreless tie with a leadoff home run against Shohei Ohtani in the fourth inning.
That was the lone run Ohtani allowed as he otherwise held the Dodgers lineup in check to the tune of 12 strikeouts over seven innings. Ohtani’s 12 strikeouts are an Angels franchise record for most against the Dodgers. The start was his first in the Freeway Series.
Miguel Vargas provided some insurance in the ninth inning with an opposite-field solo home run that snapped an 0-for-24 skid.
Following González, the Dodgers called on Yency Almonte, Alex Vesia, Ryan Brasier, Caleb Ferguson and Evan Phillips. González earned the win, while Almonte, Vesia, Brasier and Ferguson each were credited with a hold. Phillips converted his second save in as many nights and ninth of the season.
Dodgers Freeway Series winning streak
The Dodgers are 8-0 in their last eight meetings against the Angels, which is tied for their longest in the Freeway Series after initially setting it from August 5, 2014-September 8, 2015.
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