Shohei Ohtani homered for the Los Angeles Dodgers, driving in three runs and solidifying their dominant 8-0 win over the New York Mets in Game 3 of the National League Championship Series on Wednesday night in New York. This impressive performance showcased Ohtani’s power and skill at a crucial moment in the series.
Kiké Hernández also contributed significantly, hitting a two-run blast in the sixth inning that extended the Dodgers’ lead to 4-0. His gesture of waving to the Citi Field crowd highlighted the shift in momentum as Los Angeles bounced back from a previous home loss to take a 2-1 lead in the best-of-seven series, marking their fourth shutout in the last five playoff games.
Ohtani’s eighth-inning connection was a remarkable 410-foot shot that soared into the second deck of right field, barely staying fair above the foul pole. This moment not only electrified the Dodgers’ dugout but also demonstrated Ohtani’s ability to perform under pressure.
Max Muncy added to the offensive onslaught in the ninth inning, hitting his 13th career postseason homer. This achievement tied him with Corey Seager and Justin Turner for the franchise record, further establishing Muncy’s reputation as a clutch performer in the playoffs.
Walker Buehler was a standout on the mound, striking out Francisco Lindor to escape a bases-loaded situation in the second inning. The Dodgers’ bullpen continued to shine, combining for five solid innings and allowing only four hits throughout the game.
Looking ahead, Game 4 is set for Thursday night in Queens. The Dodgers will send $325 million rookie Yoshinobu Yamamoto to the mound, facing off against seasoned left-hander Jose Quintana.
Michael Kopech delivered a hitless fifth inning, contributing to the Dodgers’ impressive pitching performance, which culminated in a total of 13 strikeouts.
Mets starter Luis Severino struggled early, falling behind 2-0 in the second inning, in part due to defensive errors. Although he did not allow an earned run, Severino’s outing was marred by 95 pitches and four walks over 4 2/3 innings, ultimately resulting in the loss.
