Jordan SpurgeonGame one of the NLDS saw the Arizona Diamondbacks take a 6-0 lead in the first inning.
Game two saw the snakes score three runs in the first. Arizona chased Dodgers’ starter Bo Miller from the game in just 1.2 innings. The stat line for Dodgers’ starters is now: 2 IP, 10 H, 9 ER, 3 BB, 1 K. That’s a 40.5 ERA.
First inning déjà vu. pic.twitter.com/cctNYiIZFq
— Arizona Diamondbacks (@Dbacks) October 10, 2023
Arizona is now up 2-0, after winning 4-2.
Small ball is playing a large part in Arizona’s postseason success. After a leadoff walk by Corbin Carroll, Ketel Marte had a bunt single against the shift in the first inning. Christian Walker hit a sacrifice fly to center to drive in the first run. Geraldo Perdomo laid down a sacrifice bunt in the second.
There were also five stolen bases by Arizona.
Zac Gallen pitched 5.1 innings, allowing two earned runs on five hits and two walks with four strikeouts.
The bottom of the 5th was the most pivotal escape job for Gallen. He forced Mookie Betts into a fielder’s choice on a first pitch, then froze Freddie Freeman on a curve ball to strike him out.
.@zacgallen23 with a clutch K and lets out the #Postseason emotion! 😤 pic.twitter.com/dyqxeAnqVr
— MLB (@MLB) October 10, 2023
In the top of the 6th, Dodgers reliever Ryan Brasier threw eight consecutive sliders. Lourdes Gurriel Jr. made him pay on number eight.
Oh Lourdes!@yunitogurriel smashes his first career #Postseason homer. pic.twitter.com/knvNt0HSTD
— MLB (@MLB) October 10, 2023
The bullpen was lights out again for Arizona. Andrew Saalfrank and Ryan Thompson cleaned up what could’ve been a mess in the sixth inning. Kevin Ginkel threw a scoreless 8th. Paul Sewaldslammed the door in the 9th.
Game 3 is Wednesday at Chase Field. The Diamondbacks have a great shot for another champagne shower and Torey Lovullo celebration speech.
