Huge first inning guides Dodgers to 10-2 win

On Wednesday, the Dodgers scored only one run for the entire game. It was a different story on Friday night, as it took them only two at-bats to reach that number. The offense didn’t stop there, as they put five runs on the board in the first inning, and a total of 10 for the game, defeating the Pittsburgh Pirates 10-2.

After a lead-off single from Matt Beaty, Max Muncy doubled him in to give LA the early lead. Justin Turner singled and Corey Seager walked, loading the bases for former-Pirate, David Freese. With a full count, Freese connected on a 95-mph fastball and hit his third career grand slam, and his first in over six years.

After a pair of two-out walks in the third, Austin Barnes doubled in two runs, giving LA the 7-1 lead. On the night, Barnes had two doubles, which tied his career-high.

While the offense was putting runs on the board, Walker Buehler was limiting them for the Pirates. In six innings of work, Buehler held the Pirates to only one run, while striking out six. It’s been an impressive last couple of starts for Buehler, as he’s allowed only two runs over his last three starts, bringing his season ERA down to 3.58. It was also his fifth consecutive start with at least six strikeouts.

Though he’s been in a bit of a slump over the last few games, Cody Bellinger was able to help contribute as well, as he hit his 18th home run of the year in the seventh inning. His 18th homer of the season last year didn’t come until August 2.

Both needing clean innings after some rough outings, Scott Alexander and Yimi Garcia each threw scoreless innings to close out the game.

Friday particulars

WP: Walker Buehler (5-1) 6 IP, 1 ER, 6 SO

LP: Michael Feliz (2-1) ¹⁄₃ IP, 5 ER

Home runs: David Freese (4) Cody Bellinger (18)

Up next

The Dodgers will look for the series win tomorrow, as Hyun-Jin Ryu (6-1, 1.52 ERA) will take the mound. First pitch is at 4:15 pm PT.