In the initial stages of the 2024 spring training season, the Los Angeles Dodgers made a commanding statement, demonstrating their dominance on the field, mirroring the expectations set by their substantial payroll.
Before even stepping onto the field for defense, the Dodgers established an impressive 8-0 lead against the San Diego Padres. Ultimately, they secured a resounding victory with a final score of 14-1. Notably, several key stars, including the renowned “Billionaire Brothers” Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto, as well as established veterans such as Freddie Freeman, Will Smith, and Clayton Kershaw, remained at the Dodgers’ training facility in Glendale, located approximately 11.4 miles away.
Despite the absence of these marquee players, the crowd of 8,677 spectators at Peoria Stadium bore witness to standout performances. Mookie Betts, a linchpin in the Dodgers’ lineup, scored the game’s initial run, followed by a notable two-run ground-rule double from Teoscar Hernandez, another significant acquisition for the team.
Meanwhile, on the Padres’ side, there was a glimpse of promise with the impressive showing from their Japanese import, Yuki Matsui. Despite his brief appearance, Matsui’s performance hinted at the potential value of his five-year, $28 million contract for the team. With his exceptional splitter and slider, Matsui managed to strike out the side, showcasing his capability to potentially earn an additional $10 million in bonuses over the duration of his contract should he secure the role of the club’s regular closer.
Of note, Matsui’s strikeouts included seasoned veterans Gavin Lux and Chris Owings, as well as rookie Andy Pages, all falling prey to his skillful pitches that dipped out of the strike zone. Their previous at-bats had contributed to the Dodgers’ impressive first inning, with Lux drawing a walk, Owings hitting a two-run double, and Pages delivering a crucial two-run single.
Matsui’s impressive performance on the mound showcased his deceptive pitching style, with his 94-mph fastball appearing even faster due to his compact stature of 5-foot-8, 165 pounds. His unique head movement upon releasing the ball added an element of deception, contributing to his stellar outing. With an impressive track record of 236 saves over the past nine seasons in Japan, Matsui’s dominance was evident, having allowed just 467 hits in 704 innings pitched and an astounding 941 strikeouts.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts efficiently utilized his pitching staff, with nine pitchers each working exactly one inning and collectively striking out 12 batters. It was a manager’s dream scenario for an opening game, providing valuable opportunities for multiple players to showcase their abilities.
However, the Dodgers’ otherwise strong pitching performance was marred by Jake Cronenworth’s home run off lefty Alex Vesia in the bottom of the fourth inning.
On the Padres’ side, their pitchers also displayed prowess, tallying a total of 16 strikeouts. Rookie right-hander Jeremiah Estrada matched Matsui’s impressive three-strikeout inning, while journeyman lefty Austin Davis struck out three minor-leaguers around a double.
San Diego starter Joe Musgrove faced difficulties, unable to record an out after tossing 24 pitches. His struggles included giving up a walk, a bloop single, hitting a batter, and surrendering Hernandez’s double.
In other developments, Gavin Lux, who missed the previous season due to a severe knee injury, showcased his agility on the bases. Lux, expected to transition to the starting shortstop position, expressed his joy at returning to the field after his injury setback.
Meanwhile, superstar Shohei Ohtani provided an update on his recovery from elbow surgery, expressing confidence in his progress. Although he won’t pitch this season, Ohtani emphasized the importance of patience in his rehabilitation process, aiming to be fully prepared for the upcoming season opener between the Dodgers and Padres in Seoul, South Korea.
“I feel like we’re right on schedule, which is a really good thing,” Ohtani remarked, highlighting his positive progress and optimistic outlook on his recovery journey. While his return to spring games is anticipated in the coming days, Ohtani remains focused on ensuring his readiness for the start of the season.
Read more:
