The Los Angeles Dodgers snapped their three-game losing streak with a 2-0 win over the New York Mets in what marked the first matchup of the season between MLB’s two top scoring offenses.
In a game where runs were at a premium, Tony Gonsolin held the Mets scoreless over six innings to improve to 6-0 on the season. He allowed just two hits and collected five strikeouts.
Gonsolin relied heavily on his fastball as he wasn’t pleased with the feel of his offspeed pitches. “I wasn’t really throwing anything offspeed for strikes, honestly,” he began.
“Curveball was high, slider was not great. Splitter was OK, threw it for some strikes when I needed to, and it worked out well when I needed to. But the fastball ultimately was the savior.”
Coming off being swept by the Pittsburgh Pirates, Gonsolin felt a little more pressure to have a good outing against the Mets. “Just a little more nervous going into it,” he admitted.
“Just knowing they’re a good offense — granted, Lindor wasn’t in there — but overall they’re a good offense top to bottom. Just trying to go out there and keep us in the ballgame.”
Gonsolin now has thrown six innings in four consecutive starts after making it a point of emphasis to go deeper into games. “Just going out there and throwing strikes, trying to trust my stuff and letting the defense play,” he said.
“Just trying to keep that up and keep it moving into the next start.”
Gonsolin praises Dodgers defense
Despite not having his best stuff, Gonsolin felt confident on the mound, largely due in part to the stellar Dodgers defense behind him.
“It’s a good feeling that I can go out there without my best stuff and rely on the defense, let them make great plays like they always do and just go out there and throw strikes,” Gonsolin said.
Are you following Dodger Blue on Instagram? It’s the best way to see exclusive coverage from games and events, get your questions answered, and more!
