Dodgers’ Offense Continues to Shine with Grand Slam Performance from Betts
SAN DIEGO — Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman’s partnership at the top of the Dodgers’ lineup has become a nightmare for opposing teams. On Monday afternoon, it was Betts who stole the show with a grand slam, sealing a 13-7 victory over the Padres at Petco Park.
The Dodgers have been an offensive juggernaut this season, matching the franchise record with their 11th grand slam. This was Betts’ sixth grand slam of his career, showcasing his ability to come through in clutch moments.
Despite a rocky start from starting pitcher Tony Gonsolin, who allowed five runs in the third inning, the Dodgers’ potent offense quickly turned the game around. In the fourth inning, they exploded for eight runs, with contributions from David Peralta, Jason Heyward, Kiké Hernández, James Outman, and Miguel Rojas.
However, it was Betts’ go-ahead grand slam that stole the spotlight. After falling behind 3-0, Betts capitalized on a pitch in the zone and sent it flying over Juan Soto’s head in left-center field.
“Maybe that’s just kind of what’s been ingrained in me,” Betts said about swinging on a 3-0 pitch. “But in that situation, I mean, especially with the momentum, I just felt we needed to try and score as many points as possible, and that was a good time to swing.”
The Dodgers’ offense has been a saving grace for a struggling starting rotation throughout the season. Despite losing key players like Trea Turner, Justin Turner, and Cody Bellinger, the team has managed to excel offensively and establish themselves as one of the best offensive teams in the Majors.
“We’re fortunate enough to have an offense like we do,” Gonsolin commented on the team’s offensive firepower.
With two months left in the season, the Dodgers show no signs of slowing down. Manager Dave Roberts praised the team’s resilience and ability to consistently put together quality at-bats.
“It’s not easy. I think that comes with experience, in the sense that every at-bat, every pitch matters,” Roberts said. “To our credit, we kept scratching, clawing, putting together good at-bats. We snuck up on Lugo. He was sort of cruising, and we kind of fought back.”
As the Dodgers continue to dominate offensively, they remain a force to be reckoned with in the National League.