Blake Snell Shines as Dodgers Take Game 1 of NLCS Against Brewers
A Historic Performance
In a thrilling start to the National League Championship Series (NLCS), Blake Snell delivered a masterclass performance, leading the Los Angeles Dodgers to a narrow 2-1 victory over the Milwaukee Brewers at American Family Field. Snell’s eight-inning gem not only showcased his exceptional talent but also added another chapter to the storied legacy of Dodgers pitching.
Dominance on the Mound
Snell’s performance was nothing short of extraordinary. He allowed just one hit and struck out ten batters, showcasing a level of control and precision that has become synonymous with his career. The only baserunner he permitted was Caleb Durbin, who managed a single in the third inning before being promptly picked off. This marked Snell’s second time in his career pitching a full eight innings, a feat he previously accomplished during his no-hitter with the San Francisco Giants in August 2024.
Freddie Freeman, the Dodgers’ first baseman, praised Snell’s performance, stating, “That was just so good from the start. Sometimes it takes an inning or two for someone to settle in. [Tonight] it was from the get-go.” This sentiment reflects the confidence Snell instilled in his teammates, setting the tone for the game.
Historical Context
Snell’s achievement is particularly noteworthy in the context of postseason history. He became the first pitcher to face the minimum through eight innings in a playoff game since Don Larsen’s perfect game in the 1956 World Series. This places Snell in an elite category, drawing comparisons to some of the greatest pitchers in baseball history.
With this victory, Snell improved his postseason record to 3-0, making him only the second Dodgers pitcher to win his first three playoff starts, joining the legendary Don Sutton from 1974. His current 0.86 ERA over three postseason outings is the second-best for a Dodgers left-hander, trailing only Sandy Koufax’s remarkable 0.38 ERA during the 1965 World Series.
A Dream Come True
Snell’s journey to the Dodgers has been a long one. After facing the Dodgers as a member of the Tampa Bay Rays in the 2020 World Series, he expressed a desire to don the iconic blue and white. “Even playing against them, watching, it was just always in the back of my mind, like, I wanted to be a Dodger and play on that team,” Snell remarked. “To be here now, it’s a dream come true. I couldn’t wish for anything more.”
This sentiment resonates deeply with Dodgers fans, who have witnessed the franchise’s rich history of pitching excellence, from Koufax to Clayton Kershaw. Snell’s arrival has added another layer to this legacy, and his current form suggests he could become a pivotal figure in the team’s quest for another championship.
The Dodgers’ Pitching Dominance
Snell’s performance is part of a broader trend of exceptional starting pitching for the Dodgers. Over the past month, the team’s starters have been nearly untouchable, boasting a 1.65 ERA in the postseason with six quality starts in their seven games. This level of dominance has been crucial for the defending champions, especially given the occasional struggles of their offense.
Freeman highlighted the collective effort of the pitching staff, stating, “Our starting pitching for the last seven, eight weeks has been — I don’t know if you can write enough words in your stories about our starting pitching. It really has been amazing. They seem to feed off each other.” This camaraderie among the pitchers has been instrumental in the Dodgers’ success, allowing them to maintain a competitive edge in high-stakes situations.
Looking Ahead
While Snell’s performance was a significant factor in the Dodgers’ Game 1 victory, the series is far from over. The Brewers, known for their resilience, mounted a ninth-inning push that kept the game tense until the final out. The Dodgers will need to remain vigilant as they continue their postseason journey.
Snell’s current form has drawn comparisons to some of the franchise’s all-time greats, including Koufax, Kershaw, and Orel Hershiser. As he aims for his first championship ring, the pressure is on, but Snell appears unfazed. “I feel like the whole postseason I’ve been pretty locked in, pretty consistent,” he said. “Different outings, but eight innings, went deeper. The last three I felt really good, really locked in. Consistent. Similar.”
Conclusion
Blake Snell’s remarkable performance in Game 1 of the NLCS not only secured a crucial victory for the Dodgers but also reinforced the franchise’s legacy of exceptional pitching. As the postseason unfolds, Snell’s contributions will be pivotal in the Dodgers’ pursuit of another championship. With a blend of historical significance and personal ambition, Snell is poised to leave an indelible mark on the Dodgers’ storied history.
