Phillies Dust It Off in NLDS Game 2 vs Dodgers

The Los Angeles Dodgers struck first in the National League Division Series, grabbing a 5-3 win over the Philadelphia Phillies. That gives them a 1-0 series lead.

Big hits from both Enrique Hernández and Teoscar Hernández powered the Dodgers past an early defensive slip. The Phillies’ offense just couldn’t get in sync.

Dodgers’ Dynamic Duo Named Hernández Delivers

There’s something about October baseball—some players just step up. For Los Angeles last night, it was the two Hernandezes who grabbed the spotlight.

Enrique Hernández sparked things with a two-run double, putting the Dodgers on top early. Soon after, Teoscar Hernández shook off a defensive mistake and smashed a three-run homer that changed everything.

Teoscar’s home run showed some serious mental toughness. After his error in the second inning helped Philadelphia score three, he stayed locked in.

He’s got an impressive October track record too: six career postseason homers and 21 RBIs in just 19 games.

Enrique’s Continued October Excellence

Enrique Hernández has a reputation as one of the Dodgers’ most clutch postseason bats. His playoff numbers tell the story: .285 average, 15 home runs, 38 RBIs.

Manager Dave Roberts loves Enrique’s knack for rising to the moment. He says Enrique brings a steadying presence and a sense of confidence that’s hard to replace this time of year.

Phillies’ Stars Silenced in Game 1

The Phillies’ biggest bats just weren’t there. Trea Turner, Kyle Schwarber, and Bryce Harper—the core of the lineup—managed only one hit between them and struck out six times.

That left the rest of the roster with a tough task. The Dodgers’ second-inning outburst proved too much to overcome.

Realmuto Calls for Calm

Veteran catcher J.T. Realmuto stressed the need to stay calm after the loss. He told reporters the team needs to “dust it off” and move on to Game 2.

That’s the Phillies’ postseason mindset—a seven-game series is never decided in one night.

Key Injury Update: Harrison Bader

Philadelphia had a scare when outfielder Harrison Bader exited with a groin injury. Medical tests showed no major damage, thankfully.

His status for Game 2 depends on how he feels during warmups. If he can’t go, the Phillies lose a lot of defense and speed, which is a tough break against a lineup as deep as the Dodgers’.

Looking Ahead to Game 2

Game 2 brings a lefty pitching duel, which should be fun to watch. The Dodgers hand the ball to Blake Snell, who went 5-4 with a 2.35 ERA this year.

The Phillies counter with Jesús Luzardo, who finished 15-7 and posted a 3.92 ERA.

Philadelphia really needs this one—falling behind 2-0 would be a rough spot heading home. For the Dodgers, the plan’s pretty clear: keep the momentum rolling.

Key Factors to Watch

Game 2 could swing on a few key things:

• Can Turner, Schwarber, or Harper find their groove at the plate again?
• Is Harrison Bader healthy enough to make an impact both in the field and with the bat?
• How will Luzardo fare against a Dodgers lineup that just loves facing lefties?
• Will Blake Snell manage to shut down the Phillies’ big bats?

October baseball is all about those moments. In Game 1, the Dodgers showed they’ve got guys who can step up when it matters.

Now, the spotlight shifts to Game 2. Will the Phillies punch back, or are the Dodgers about to tighten their hold on this series?

 
Here is the source article for this story: Phillies eager to ‘dust it off’ in NLDS Game 2 vs. Dodgers