The Los Angeles Dodgers were defeated handily by the Arizona Diamondbacks on Monday, pushing their losing streak to a season-high four games.
The loss in the series opener came on the heels of a disappointing sweep at the hands of the Los Angeles Angels. Series against the likes of the Diamondbacks, San Francisco Giants and San Diego Padres carry some extra weight this season, with each matchup providing the Dodgers an opportunity to secure their own position atop the National League West standings.
Therefore, the Dodgers response in the final two games against the diamondbacks was significant and gives them positive momentum heading into a challenging road trip with two playoff teams from last season on the docket.
“Any wins are big, but especially against our in-division rivals. Well, I guess all of our divisions are rivals. So in-division wins are always huge,” Mookie Betts said. “But I know it’s going to be a tough road trip coming up. We got two really good ballclubs. It’ll be fun.”
The Dodgers’ walk-off victory on Tuesday was particularly meaningful as they overcame Tanner Scott’s blown save.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts was proud of the resilience his team showed against the Diamondbacks, and is hoping they build off their current momentum.
“It’s huge. Going into an off day, going into two road series against two good ballclubs. You look back 27 hours ago, we were in it, giving up a lead in the ninth inning and looking to lose the first two of a series, and you come away winning that one and then winning this one,” Roberts said.
“So to find a way to win a series against that club, and within the division, I think there’s certainly some momentum. I’m looking forward to Clayton (Kershaw) going on Friday so we can hopefully build off of this.”
The Dodgers picking up the two wins against the Diamondbacks was especially important with a talented and highly motivated New York Mets team next on the schedule.
“It was big. It was big,” Roberts said. “And it’s one of those things where, I think if you look at where we’re at, looking at the schedule going forward, you have to win the games that you have to win, and you have leads in. And we did a nice job of that the last two games.
“And we’re going to have a good test coming up on the road. The Mets are playing as good of baseball from the beginning of the season to now as anyone, and they’re going to want to get a little revenge. I’m sure that they’re going to come out. The fans will be out.
“It’s going to be crazy, but I expect us to play well, but it starts with starting pitching. But to build a little momentum, I feel like we’re in a good spot right now.”
Dodgers catcher forgotten on bobblehead night
Will Smith was not in the lineup for his own bobblehead night at Dodger Stadium on Wednesday, instead it was recently-promoted prospect Dalton Rushing behind the plate. It was not done purposefully, but rather the byproduct of the Dodgers’ aggressive approach to managing Smith’s workload this season.
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