The Los Angeles Dodgers suffered another defeat at the hands of the Milwaukee Brewers on Sunday, losing 6-2 in a game that showcased a strong start from Tarik Skubal but ultimately fell short. Skubal pitched six innings and allowed just one earned run on seven hits and two walks, striking out seven batters in a performance that was described as workmanlike by commentators. This marked the first time this season that Skubal threw 100 pitches or more in a game, following a six-week absence after elbow surgery. Despite his efforts, the Dodgers’ offense could not deliver the support needed, with only one run coming from Max Muncy’s solo home run in the fourth inning. Muncy’s home run was on a day celebrating the 10-year anniversary of his MLB debut.
The Brewers managed to score three runs in the second inning, with one unearned due to an error by Tommy Edman that failed to catch the throw from Mookie Betts, according to dodgersdigest.com. Another run came in the same inning when Jake Bauers hit a changeup into right field, scoring Jackson Chourio. The Brewers added two more runs in the seventh inning through Edgardo Henriquez and Alex Vesia. The Dodgers had a chance to score in the eighth inning but failed to capitalize on opportunities, with Teoscar Hernandez and Hunter Feduccia both making singles that didn’t result in runs. Shohei Ohtani came to the plate against Aaron Ashby but grounded into a double play.
The Dodgers’ defense also faltered in the ninth inning, with Kyle Tucker and Tommy Edman both making errors that led to runs. DL Hall was brought in with the bases loaded and allowed a solo home run to Andy Pages.
The loss dropped the Dodgers’ record to 74-51, while the Brewers improved to 77-48 and now hold a three-game lead in the season series. The team’s struggles were not limited to just one area, as both the bullpen and batting lineup continue to underperform. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has been dealing with a recent slump that mirrors last year’s struggles, though he remains hopeful for improvement.
The team heads to Colorado next to begin a three-game series with the Rockies on Monday night. The Brewers’ pitching staff, led by Tarik Skubal, was able to keep the game close despite the team’s offensive struggles. Skubal’s performance was a reminder of his potential, especially after returning from injury and striking out the side in his final innings.
The game also featured a pregame tribute to Tommy John, who died Saturday night and had pitched for the Dodgers from 1972-1978, according to a report from Newsday. John’s impact on the franchise was recognized with a video tribute and moment of silence before the game began.
The Dodgers’ recent struggles have raised concerns about their ability to maintain momentum as they head into the final stretch of the season. With a number of key players still recovering from injuries, the team’s performance will be critical in determining how far they can advance in the playoffs.
IMAGE: Tarik Skubal pitching for the Detroit Tigers during the 2024 Little League Classic.. Photo: Jeffrey Hyde / Wikimedia, taken 2024-08-18, CC BY-SA 2.0