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Dodgers Rise Above Mets 4-2 Behind Sasaki and Tucker
about 13 hours agoUS
The Los Angeles Dodgers extended their MLB-best record to 66-38 with a commanding 4-2 victory over the New York Mets at Citi Field on Friday night. Roki Sasaki delivered a dominant seven-inning performance, while Kyle Tucker broke out of his slump with a crucial two-run home run in the eighth inning. The two-time defending World Series champions improved to 4-0 against the Mets this season before a packed crowd of 35,338 on Japanese Heritage Night.
Key Insights
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Sasaki's dominance: Right-hander Roki Sasaki tied his season high with seven innings pitched, allowing just one run on three hits while striking out nine batters. He generated a career-best 21 swings and misses, primarily with his devastating splitter.
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Tucker's breakthrough: Slumping outfielder Kyle Tucker hit his eighth home run of the season — a two-run shot in the eighth inning off A.J. Minter. It was his first homer since June 27. Tucker signed a $240 million, four-year contract with the Dodgers last offseason.
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Mets' struggles continue: New York fell to 43-61, a season-worst 18 games under .500, as they prepare for a potential selloff ahead of the Aug. 3 trade deadline. Juan Soto was removed in the sixth inning due to left calf soreness.
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Why this matters: The Dodgers continue to solidify their status as the team to beat in the National League, while the Mets face an increasingly uncertain future. Sasaki's mechanical adjustments — refined before his start against the Yankees last week — appear to be paying off significantly.
In-Depth Analysis
Sasaki's Mechanical Adjustment Pays Dividends
Roki Sasaki entered Friday's start after implementing mechanical changes before facing the Yankees. The results were remarkable: while his velocity dipped slightly (only one pitch at 100 mph compared to 21 against the Yankees), his splitter became nearly unhittable. Mets manager Andy Green acknowledged that despite having a scouting report advising hitters not to chase below the zone, "It's one thing to say 'Don't do that.' It's another thing to pick up his split-finger."
Sasaki's catcher, Dalton Rushing, called a sharp game, and the pitcher credited the game plan's execution. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts noted that Sasaki is no longer thinking about mechanics on the mound — he's simply in "compete mode."
Tucker's Perseverance
Kyle Tucker's first season with the Dodgers has been underwhelming by his standards — a .236/.329/.360 slash line entering Friday. However, Roberts expressed confidence that the bat is coming around. "For me, it's coming. It hasn't been consistent or as fast as we like, but he is still working hard."
Tucker acknowledged his frustration but emphasized his approach: "You have to be confident in yourself. I try to go to every single at-bat and forget about previous ones."
Key Game Moments
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Fourth inning: Miguel Rojas tied the game with a sacrifice fly off Sean Manaea.
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Seventh inning: Shohei Ohtani put the Dodgers ahead 2-1 with a sacrifice fly scoring Teoscar Hernández.
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Eighth inning: Tucker's two-run homer extended the lead to 4-1.
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Mets response: Francisco Alvarez homered in the eighth off Evan Phillips, but Tanner Scott closed the door with a perfect ninth for his 16th save.
Rookie Carson Benge impressed defensively for the Mets with two assists from right field, including a 100 mph throw to cut down Freeman at home plate.
FAQs
What was Roki Sasaki's final stat line?
Sasaki pitched 7 innings, allowing 1 run on 3 hits with 9 strikeouts and 2 walks. He earned his first win since May 23.
How has Kyle Tucker performed in his first season with the Dodgers?
Tucker has struggled relative to his career standards, slashing .236/.329/.360 with 8 home runs through Friday. He previously hit 30 homers in both 2021 and 2022 with the Astros.
What happened to Juan Soto?
Soto was removed in the sixth inning due to left calf soreness. The Mets have not yet provided further updates on his status.
What's next for the Dodgers and Mets?
The series continues Saturday with a marquee pitching matchup: Dodgers RHP Yoshinobu Yamamoto (10-6, 2.78 ERA) faces Mets rookie Nolan McLean (7-6, 3.34 ERA).
Key Takeaways
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For Dodgers fans: Sasaki's mechanical adjustments signal he may be rounding into peak form just in time for the stretch run. If Tucker's bat wakes up, this lineup becomes even more dangerous.
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For Mets fans: The team's struggles are deepening at the worst possible time. With the trade deadline approaching, key players could be dealt. The Soto injury adds another layer of concern.
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For fantasy players: Sasaki is a strong buy-low candidate if his owner is frustrated by his early-season record. His underlying metrics (21 whiffs, 9 Ks in 7 IP) suggest better days ahead.
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For neutral baseball fans: The Dodgers (66-38) boast the best record in MLB and are chasing a third straight World Series title — a storyline worth watching.
Discussion
Do you think Roki Sasaki has finally turned the corner after his mechanical adjustments? And will Kyle Tucker rediscover his power stroke in time for October? Let us know your thoughts!
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