Steve Webb
Game 115, 8/7/2024: Dodgers 4, Phillies 9
CHAVEZ RAVINE, CA — In a high-stakes matchup at Dodger Stadium, the Phillies triumphed over the Dodgers with a final score of 9-4. The game took a dramatic turn in the bottom of the fifth inning, highlighted by a controversial interference call by third base umpire Hunter Wendelstedt. This call against Dodgers’ shortstop Miguel Rojas seemed to unravel the home team’s momentum, ultimately leading to their downfall.
The incident occurred with the Dodgers clinging to a narrow 4-3 lead. Alec Bohm doubled to start the sixth inning for the Phillies. A ground ball from Brandon Marsh followed, and Bohm advanced to third base on what was initially ruled interference by Rojas for not allowing Bohm a lane to the base. It was a garbage call, and it came at exactly the wrong moment. The Dodgers vehemently contested the call, resulting in the ejection of manager Dave Roberts. This momentous decision swung the game’s momentum entirely in favor of the Phillies, who capitalized on the opportunity.
Following the controversial call, J.T. Realmuto grounded out, allowing Bohm to score, tying the game at 4-4. With two outs, the Dodgers’ pitching fell apart. Joe Kelly, brought in to replace Alex Vesia, walked Nick Castellanos and Johan Rojas, setting the stage for Kyle Schwarber. Schwarber, who was already having a phenomenal night, hit his second home run of the game, a three-run blast that pushed the Phillies ahead 8-4.
Dodgers’ pitching continued to struggle with Schwarber, who went 4-for-4 with three home runs and seven RBIs. His final homer came in the ninth inning off Michael Grove, sealing the Phillies’ victory. Schwarber’s performance was a stark contrast to the Dodgers’ inability to contain him throughout the game.
The Dodgers’ offensive efforts were led by Freddie Freeman, who had a two-run single in the second inning, but it wasn’t enough to counteract the Phillies’ offensive surge and the pivotal umpire call that shifted the game’s trajectory. As the Dodgers look to regroup, the controversial call and Schwarber’s dominance will remain talking points for fans and analysts alike.
After an offday on Thursday, prized rookie Paul Skenes and the Pittsburgh Pirates come into town for a weekend series. No word on pitching plans yet for either team. It’s going to be “Alumni Weekend,” so there are sure to be plenty of former Dodgers on hand to join in the fun. Friday’s game will be at 7:10 pm, Saturday’s at 6:10, and then Sunday afternoon’s game will start at 1:10. Then it’s off on a crucial roadtrip as the Dodgers look to keep their lead in the NL West. It’s going to be four games in Milwaukee and then three in St. Louis before the team returns home on August 19. See you at the ballpark!
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