Hot-hitting Mookie Betts and AJ Pollock made the most of the 82 degrees and sunny LA skies on Sunday afternoon both sending three-run homers over the outfield wall into the pavilion bleachers to topple the Giants 6-2.
Reliable right-handed pitcher Walker Buehler took the mound for the Dodgers displaying an unusual lack of command throughout the afternoon allowing an uncharacteristic four leadoff walks.
At the top of the fifth Buehler’s control issue came to surface walking Pablo Sandoval, hitting Austin Slater, and lastly giving up a 2-run double to outfielder Mike Yastrzemski putting the Giants ahead 2-0.
“Just a little bit erratic”, said Buehler speaking on his command issues. “Today wasn’t my best outing by any means but I feel encouraged. It’s hard on a team that’s this good, you don’t want to mess it up. I have some things I want to improve execution wise.”
Though Buehler got into trouble he was able to minimize the damage keeping the ball in the park and giving his team a chance to win, which is always a benefit being supported with a high-octane offense.
“We couldn’t get the leadoff guy out,” said Manager Dave Roberts. “I think if you look at his 90 throws, 30 were great and executed well, but [Buehler] still gave us a chance to win the game and that is a part of his value.”
Buehler pitched 5 ⅔ innings striking out 6 of the 23 batters he faced.
AJ Pollock came through with the first hit of the game and the biggest hit of the game sending a 3-run blast over the left-field wall putting the Dodgers ahead 3-2.
“I feel really good, I feel pretty consistent,” said Pollock. “Even on the days, I don’t get results I’m still seeing the ball really well.”
Pollock has been a superb the Dodgers this season batting .311 with 4 home runs. The outfielder was acquired last season on a 4-year deal worth 55 million but failed to make the impact he did previously with the Arizona Diamondbacks.
“I think last year I was just trying to stay afloat,” said Pollock. “I had the staff infection that kept me out. This year I was excited because we have a great group of guys. It’s good to know we can put up a bunch of runs early in the season like this and still feel like we haven’t hit our stride.”
With a one-run lead, series split one win apiece Mookie Betts sent a 3-run blast into the LA sunshine to secure the 6-2 win and take the series from the division rivals up north.
Dodgers reliever Jake McGee received the win for the 2 hours 41-minute contest, while Giants Tyler Rodgers received the loss.
The Dodgers who haven’t lost a series this season welcome the San Diego Padres to Chavez Ravine Monday.
