Steve Webb
Game 107, 7/28/2024: Dodgers 6, Astros* 2
HOUSTON, TX — How about these kids, huh? The day after Justin Wrobleski turned in a great start, River Ryan delivered a stellar performance in Houston, leading the Dodgers to a 6-2 victory over the the hated Astros. Ryan pitched 5.2 innings, allowing just one run on two hits while striking out eight batters. His composed and effective outing set the tone for the game, earning him his first big league win.
The Dodgers’ lineup, despite missing some key players (No Mookie, No Freddie, No Will), showed resilience and depth. James Outman initiated the scoring with a solo home run in the fifth inning, giving the Dodgers a 1-0 lead. In the sixth inning, Gavin Lux extended the lead with a two-run homer, scoring Teoscar Hernández, who had singled earlier in the inning.
Teoscar Hernández continued to shine, hitting a solo home run in the eighth inning. Hernández went 2-for-5 with two runs scored and one RBI, showcasing his offensive prowess.
Gavin Lux was also impressive, reaching base four times, including his pivotal home run, which contributed significantly to the Dodgers’ victory. Lux continues to prove his doubters wrong in the second half of the year. In his last nine games, he is 13-for-25, which translates to a .520 batting average with 3 home runs and eight RBI. It all adds up to a torrid 1.640 OPS. More of this, please.
The Dodgers’ ability to get on base was evident throughout the game. They drew seven walks, with contributions from multiple players, including Austin Barnes, Jason Heyward, and Shohei Ohtani, who also stole a base. Cavan Biggio added to the scoring with an RBI single in the eighth inning, bringing home Gavin Lux.
On the mound, the Dodgers’ bullpen was solid in relief of Ryan, although it didn’t start out that way. Alex Vesia gave up a two-run homer on the very first pitch he threw, causing many a Dodger fan to have a serious case of deja vu from Saturday’s meltdown. However, the bullpen held tight after that. Vesia went 1.1 innings, and together with Joe Kelly, and Brent Honeywell, the pen combined to pitch 3.1 innings, allowing only one run and securing the win.
This team effort was essential as the Dodgers overcame a depleted lineup to secure a crucial win, maintaining their position at the top of the NL West. Ryan’s impressive debut and the lineup’s productivity highlight the depth and resilience of this Dodgers squad as they continue their push toward the postseason.
After a travel day on Monday, the Dodgers set up shop down south for a two-gamer with the suddenly hot Padres. They still hold a 6.5 lead in the West over San Diego, but a little mini-sweep here would go a long way to erasing some of these mid-season struggles. It’s going to be a great one-two punch on Tuesday and Wednesday with Tyler Glasnow and Clayton Kershaw slated to pitch. It would be worth the drive down, I’d imagine.
Have you subscribed to the Bleed Los Podcast YouTube channel? Be sure to ring the notification bell to watch player interviews, participate in shows & promotions, and stay up to date on all Dodgers news and rumors!
