Max Muncy hit two home runs to provided the Los Angeles Dodgers with just enough scoring in a 3-2 win over the Cincinnati Reds that snapped a two-game losing streak.
The Dodgers took a lead in the bottom of the first inning when Muncy slugged a 400-foot home run to the pavilion in right-center field.
But the two unearned runs were all the Dodgers managed against Luke Weaver until late in the game. That kept pressure on Emmet Sheehan to pitch well, and the rookie responded.
Sheehan allowed just two hits and issued one walk while getting through five scoreless innings on 82 pitches. The performance backed up Dodgers manager Dave Roberts expressing confidence prior to the game that Sheehan would have “one of his better outings.”
Dodger Stadium loves Joe Kelly. pic.twitter.com/xWoSUeg7Rk
— Matthew Moreno (@Matthew__Moreno) July 30, 2023
Roberts nevertheless came with somewhat of an early hook, and turning to the bullpen immediately backfired as Caleb Ferguson gave up a leadoff double to Elly De La Cruz followed by an infield single on a ball Chris Taylor couldn’t come up with a backhanded play on at second base.
The Reds proceeded to tie the game on a sacrifice fly and two-out base hit. Ferguson’s night came to an end after walking Joey Votto.
Joe Kelly inherited two baserunners in his first appearance since being traded to the Dodgers. Kelly drew a raucous applause upon entering the game, and nearly allowed the Reds to take the lead.
But he worked around a wild pitch and walk that loaded the bases by striking out Will Benson to end the inning.
That was rewarded by Muncy connecting for another home run off Weaver that proved to be the difference. It also gave Muncy 27 long balls this season, and 14 career multi-homer games, of which five have come this year.
Muncy’s prolific night at the plate coincided with St. Louis Cardinals president of baseball operations John Mozeliak ruling out a Nolan Arenado trade at the August 1 deadline. The Dodgers had reportedly focused on acquiring Arenado in recent days, and Muncy had been mentioned as a possible candidate to be included in the deal.
Dodgers bullpen shuts door
After Muncy provided the Dodgers with a lead, they turned to Brusdar Graterol for five outs and Evan Phillips converted a four-out save.
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