Dodgers Edge Yankees in Tense Game 4, Move One Win Away From World Series
Los Angeles, CA - The Los Angeles Dodgers inched closer to their second World Series appearance in three years, defeating the New York Yankees 4-2 in a tense Game 4 on Friday night. The victory gives the Dodgers a commanding 3-1 series lead, putting them one win away from advancing to the Fall Classic.
A Tightly Contested Battle
The game was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams trading blows throughout. The Yankees struck first in the top of the second inning, scoring on a sacrifice fly by Aaron Judge. The Dodgers responded in the bottom of the third, with Max Muncy driving in a run with a single.
The Yankees took the lead again in the top of the fourth inning on a solo home run by Giancarlo Stanton, his first of the series. But the Dodgers quickly tied the game in the bottom of the inning on a double by Mookie Betts.
The scoring stopped until the seventh inning when the Dodgers broke through for two runs, taking the lead for good. A single by Will Smith scored a run, and a wild pitch brought in the final run of the game.
Dodgers Pitching Shines Again
The Dodgers' pitching staff once again shined, limiting the powerful Yankees offense to just two runs. Clayton Kershaw started the game and pitched five strong innings, allowing just one run on four hits. He was relieved by Brusdar Graterol, who pitched a scoreless sixth inning, before Evan Phillips came in to close out the seventh. The game was ultimately handed over to closer Craig Kimbrel, who pitched a perfect ninth inning, earning his third save of the series.
The Road Ahead
The Dodgers will now look to clinch the series on Saturday in Game 5. The Yankees will be forced to win two straight to extend the series and force a Game 7. The pressure is mounting on the Yankees, who have their backs against the wall.
Key Takeaways:
- The Dodgers' pitching continues to be a dominant force in the series, keeping the Yankees' potent offense in check.
- Max Muncy and Mookie Betts continue to be offensive catalysts for the Dodgers, driving in key runs.
- The Yankees must find a way to generate more offense if they want to stay alive in the series.
The stage is set for a pivotal Game 5. Will the Dodgers clinch their spot in the World Series, or will the Yankees fight their way back into the series? The answer will be revealed on Saturday night.