The Los Angeles Dodgers suffered a humiliating defeat at Dodger Stadium Friday night, falling to the Houston Astros in an 18-1 rout. This marks the Dodgers' worst-ever loss at their home ballpark, surpassing a previous 17-run loss dating back to 1947.
Jose Altuve led the Astros' offensive onslaught, going 3-for-3 with two home runs, a double, two walks, four runs scored, and five RBIs. Altuve, a central figure in the Astros' 2017 World Series victory over the Dodgers (marred by sign-stealing allegations), was met with boos from the Dodger Stadium crowd. Christian Walker also contributed significantly with four hits, including a home run, and four RBIs.
Dodgers starting pitcher Ben Casparius struggled, lasting only three innings and allowing six runs on nine hits, including three home runs. Reliever Noah Davis fared even worse, surrendering 10 runs in the sixth inning alone. This was the most runs the Dodgers have allowed in a single inning since 1999.
“That was one you want to flush as soon as possible,” Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said after the game. “I don’t think there were many positives from this night.”
The Astros' dominant performance included a season-high-tying five home runs. Six different Astros players scored multiple runs. The Dodgers' sole run came late in the game, a mere consolation in the face of the Astros' overwhelming offensive display.
The loss is a major setback for the Dodgers, who are looking to maintain their position as a division leader. The Astros, on the other hand, continue their impressive run, solidifying their status as a contender in the American League.
The game was so lopsided that Dodgers fans began chanting "Start the fireworks!" before the final out. Even Dodgers broadcaster Orel Hershiser alluded to the Astros' past sign-stealing scandal, remarking on their exceptional hitting performance.
Adding insult to injury, infielder Miguel Rojas was brought in to pitch the ninth inning, throwing a scoreless frame while trailing by 17 runs. The Dodgers' pitching staff, already depleted by injuries, faced a night to forget.