Can Ohtani's 44th Homer and Call's Big Night Lead the Dodgers to an 11-4 Victory Over the Rockies?

The Los Angeles Dodgers showcased their offensive prowess with an impressive 11-4 victory over the Colorado Rockies, highlighted by Shohei Ohtani's 44th home run and Alex Call's standout four-hit performance. This win solidifies the Dodgers’ dominance in their recent encounters with the Rockies, marking their 11th victory in the last 12 matchups.

Last updated: 04 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways from the Game

• Shohei Ohtani hit his 44th home run, tying for the NL lead.
• Alex Call reached a career-high with four hits, including a home run.
• The Dodgers had 18 hits, with all nine starters contributing offensively.
• Austin Gomber of the Rockies is still searching for his first win this season.
• Emmet Sheehan continued his strong performance, striking out seven over six innings.

Game Overview

In a commanding performance on Tuesday night, the Dodgers took control early, scoring twice in the first inning against Rockies’ pitcher Austin Gomber. By the end of the third inning, they had built a formidable 7-0 lead, thanks to back-to-back home runs from Ohtani and Call in the second inning. The Dodgers were relentless, adding further runs in the third and seventh innings, showcasing their ability to capitalise on scoring opportunities.

Offensive Highlights

The Dodgers' attack was led by Ohtani and Call, both of whom demonstrated their power and hitting versatility. Ohtani’s solo home run not only marked his 44th of the season but also kept him tied with Philadelphia's Kyle Schwarber for the National League home run lead. Meanwhile, Alex Call’s four-hit game, which included a home run, brought him close to hitting for the cycle, as he was merely a triple shy of the milestone.

Will Smith also made headlines by achieving three hits, raising his batting average to an impressive .308, the highest in the National League at this stage of the season. The Dodgers finished the game with 18 hits in total, a testament to their offensive depth and strategy.

Pitching Performances

On the mound, Emmet Sheehan pitched six innings, tying his career high while striking out seven batters. Sheehan’s performance was pivotal, especially as he improved his record to 3-0 against the Rockies this season. Despite conceding two home runs, his ability to manage the game effectively and limit damage allowed the Dodgers to maintain control throughout the match.

In contrast, Gomber struggled significantly, allowing seven runs over just three innings of work. Currently winless in 15 starts, Gomber’s performance has raised concerns regarding his form and effectiveness as the Rockies continue to languish at the bottom of the standings.

Key Moments

One of the notable moments in the game occurred when Warming Bernabel led off the fourth inning for the Rockies with an infield single. Following an errant throw from third baseman Buddy Kennedy, Bernabel attempted to advance to second base. However, a strong throw from Miguel Rojas managed to beat him, illustrating the Dodgers’ ability to execute defensively during critical moments.

Statistical Insights

One of the standout statistics from this game was the Dodgers' impressive ability to drive in runs during two-out situations. They recorded seven two-out RBIs, showcasing their clutch hitting and ability to perform under pressure. This included two runs in the first inning and three in the third, which helped to cement their commanding lead early.

What’s Next for the Dodgers and Rockies

As the Dodgers look to build on their momentum, Ohtani is set to make his 10th start of the season on Wednesday night. With a current record of 0-0 and an ERA of 3.47, fans are eager to see how he performs against the Rockies. Meanwhile, Tanner Gordon will take the mound for Colorado, looking to improve his record of 3-5 with an ERA of 7.98. Both teams will be eager to showcase their strengths in this upcoming matchup, with the Dodgers aiming for a continued winning streak.

Conclusion

This victory not only reinforces the Dodgers' position as a formidable force in the National League but also raises questions about the Rockies' ability to regroup and find form. With key players like Ohtani and Call performing at such high levels, the Dodgers will undoubtedly continue to be a team to watch as the season progresses. How will the Rockies respond to this defeat, and can they turn their fortunes around in the upcoming games?

#Dodgers #Baseball #MLB

FAQs

What are Shohei Ohtani's current stats this season?

Shohei Ohtani currently has 44 home runs this season, tying him for the National League lead. He also maintains a solid ERA of 3.47 as a pitcher.

How many hits did Alex Call achieve in the recent game?

Alex Call achieved a career-high four hits in the recent game against the Colorado Rockies, including a home run.

What is the Dodgers' record against the Rockies this season?

The Dodgers have won 11 out of their last 12 meetings against the Rockies, highlighting their dominance in this matchup.

When is the next game for the Dodgers?

The Dodgers are set to play their next game on Wednesday night, where Ohtani will be making his 10th start of the season.

What has been Austin Gomber's performance this season?

Austin Gomber is struggling, currently holding an 0-7 record this season and has gone 15 starts without a victory, with his last win dating back to September 2024.