By Earl Heath | Contributing Sports Writer
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Los Angeles Dodgers found their rhythm at the plate in a big way, erupting for 23 runs across two games to overpower the Washington Nationals in a weekend series that showcased the depth—and danger—of their lineup.
After early-season questions about consistency at the top of the order, the Dodgers answered emphatically.
Ohtani Sparks Breakout in Series Opener
Shohei Ohtani delivered the turning point Friday night, blasting a three-run homer in the third inning to ignite a 13-6 victory. The home run not only tied the game but marked Ohtani’s first RBIs of the season.
Moments later, Mookie Betts followed with a two-run shot to give Los Angeles a lead it would not relinquish.
Freddie Freeman and Kyle Tucker also went deep, as the Dodgers’ lineup flexed its full power potential. Andy Pages added another home run, continuing his strong start to the season.
The offensive surge backed right-hander Emmet Sheehan (1-0), who settled in after allowing a three-run homer to CJ Abrams in the first inning. Sheehan went 5 2/3 innings, giving up four runs on seven hits while walking three and striking out two.
For Washington, the loss extended a troubling trend. The Nationals have now dropped five consecutive home openers, and the 13 runs allowed marked their worst defensive showing in a home opener since relocating to D.C. in 2005.
Freeman, Pages Lead Game Two Rout
The Dodgers carried that momentum into Saturday, cruising to a 10-5 win behind another strong offensive showing.
Freeman set the tone early, delivering two-run doubles in both the first and second innings. Pages continued his breakout campaign with a three-run homer in the fifth, finishing 3 for 5 and lifting his batting average to an impressive .500 on the young season.
Despite the loss of Betts in the first inning due to lower back pain, Los Angeles showed its depth. Veteran Miguel Rojas stepped in and contributed with a sacrifice fly to extend the lead.
Tyler Glasnow (1-0) was dominant on the mound, allowing just two runs on four hits over six innings. He struck out nine and walked two in a commanding performance.
Washington starter Jake Irvin (1-1) struggled to contain the Dodgers’ lineup, surrendering six runs on eight hits in four innings. Abrams provided a highlight for the Nationals with a home run, but it was not enough to slow Los Angeles’ momentum.
Dodgers Show Depth—and Firepower
Through the first two games of the series, the Dodgers totaled 32 hits and 23 runs, overwhelming Nationals pitching with a balanced attack that included both power and timely hitting.
The team even capitalized on new technology, using the Automated Ball-Strike System to help generate a run in Saturday’s game after a successful challenge reversed a strikeout call and led to an RBI single.
For Los Angeles, the series was more than just two wins—it was a statement that their lineup, when clicking, remains one of the most dangerous in baseball.
For Washington, it was another reminder of the growing pains that come with rebuilding—and the challenge of containing elite teams.