This day in Los Angeles Dodgers history is noteworthy for Johnny Podres, Hideo Nomo, Eric Gagné, Cody Bellinger and the 2020 World Series championship team.
On July 2, 1962, Podres tied an old MLB record with eight consecutive strikeouts during a 5-1 win over the Philadelphia Phillies. Podres began his record-tying streak by getting Ted Savage swinging for the third out in the fourth inning.
Podres struck out Mel Roach to begin the seventh inning before a ground ball ended his historic streak. Podres finished with 11 strikeouts over 7.2 innings.
The MLB record for consecutive strikeouts in a single game is 10, which is shared by Tom Seaver (1970), Aaron Nola (2021) and Corbin Burnes (2011).
Dodgers history: July 2
Nomo is an All-Star
On July 2, 1995, Nomo became the first player from Japan to be selected to the MLB All-Star Game. He represented the Dodgers by starting for the National League team, allowed just one hit and had three strikeouts over two scoreless innings at The Ballpark in Arlington.
Nomo went on to win NL Rookie of the Year but never received another All-Star Game selection.
Gagné fastest to 30 saves
On July 2, 2002, Gagné became the fastest pitcher in MLB history to 30 saves when he closed out a 4-0 win against the Arizona Diamondbacks. Gagné accomplished the feat in the Dodgers’ 82nd game of the season, and went on to tie his MLB record in 2003 as well.
Bellinger walks Dodgers to win
Trailing the Diamondbacks by one run heading into the ninth inning on July 2, 2019, the Dodgers rallied for a walk-off win thanks to five consecutive walks. Bellinger drawing a free pass with the bases loaded secured the walk-off win.
It was the Dodgers’ second walk-off win to come via walk since 2017, when Bellinger drew the fourth free pass against the Kansas City Royals.
Joe Kelly steals spotlight during White House visit
On July 2, 2021, the Dodgers had the opportunity to celebrate their 2020 World Series win with a visit to the White House.
Dodgers players spoke with President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, both of whom were presented a custom jersey. Joe Kelly famously wore a mariachi jacket to the White House because he had forgotten formal attire.
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