The Los Angeles Dodgers are sending a clear message to the rest of the MLB: they're here to win. After a dominant Game 1 victory in the NL Wild Card Series against the Cincinnati Reds, Dodgers star Mookie Betts summed up the night perfectly: "We’re playing Dodger baseball." That simple phrase, a mic-drop moment, encapsulates the confidence radiating from the team.
Dodgers' Offensive Onslaught
The Dodgers' offense was firing on all cylinders, with Shohei Ohtani and Teoscar Hernandez leading the charge. Hernandez, in particular, drew praise from Betts for lengthening the lineup and keeping the pressure on the Reds' pitchers. "Teo definitely helped us a lot," Betts said, highlighting Hernandez's impact.
The Dodgers' offensive explosion marked the 15th time in franchise history that they've scored 10 or more runs in a playoff game. Their ability to combine patience and power is a key reason why they lead the league in wearing down opposing bullpens.
Betts' Resilient Season
Mookie Betts has described his season as one of the most resilient of his career. After struggling early on, Betts made a conscious decision to focus on the "little things" to help the Dodgers win. "I just accepted failing," Betts said. "My thought process on failing changed… I just used it as a positive and it eventually turned."
Prior to August 8th, Betts was batting .231 with a .657 OPS. However, from August 8th onward, he batted .309/.368/.506/.874 with nine home runs and 34 RBI in 45 games. This remarkable turnaround is a testament to his mental fortitude and dedication to the team.
Snell's Dominance on the Mound
Betts also emphasized the outstanding performance of pitcher Blake Snell. "He did amazing," Betts said. "It wasn’t luck that he’s won two Cy Youngs. He showed it tonight and essentially put us on his back." Snell's dominance on the mound complemented the Dodgers' powerful offense, showcasing their well-rounded team.
The Dodgers have now won 11 of their last 14 postseason games dating back to last year’s NLDS, proving that their experience and depth are valuable assets in October.