Steve Webb
Game 126, 8/19/2024: Dodgers 3, Mariners 0
CHAVEZ RAVINE, CA — Gavin Stone delivered a stellar performance at Dodger Stadium, leading the Los Angeles Dodgers to a 3-0 victory with a career-high 10 strikeouts. This remarkable outing showcased Stone’s growing potential as a key contributor to the Dodgers’ pitching staff. From the start, he kept the Mariners’ hitters off balance, mixing his pitches effectively and maintaining control throughout his seven innings of work. His 10th strikeout came in the seventh inning, marking a significant milestone in his young career and earning him a well-deserved ovation from the home crowd.
Stone’s command was evident early, as he struck out Victor Robles to begin the game and then cruised through the Mariners’ lineup, allowing just a handful of baserunners. His ability to work out of tight spots was crucial, especially in the sixth inning when Randy Arozarena walked and stole second, only to be left stranded after a lineout by Cal Raleigh. Stone’s composure in these situations highlighted his growing maturity on the mound.
The Dodgers’ offense, though slow to start against righty Bryan Woo, came alive in the seventh inning against the bullpen. Gavin Lux broke the scoreless tie with a solo home run to center field, his ninth of the season. Lux, who has been a consistent performer for the Dodgers since the break, gave his team the lead and sparked the late-inning rally. His home run energized the crowd and shifted the momentum firmly in favor of the Dodgers.
Max Muncy, playing in his first game back from the Injured List, provided the insurance runs with a two-run homer later in the inning. Muncy’s return was highly anticipated, and he did not disappoint. His 10th home run of the season gave the Dodgers a 3-0 lead, offering the team some much-needed breathing room. Muncy’s blast to right field was a reminder of his power and his importance to the Dodgers’ lineup as they push toward the postseason.
With Stone’s dominant performance and the timely power hitting from Lux and Muncy, the Dodgers secured a crucial victory. The bullpen, led by Joe Kelly and Evan Phillips, closed out the game, preserving the shutout and ensuring Stone’s efforts were rewarded with a win.
The series with the Mariners continues on Tuesday with Walker Buehler on the mound for Los Angeles. With precious few starts left before October, Buehler is fast running out of “second chances.” He’ll need to at least show improvement in this one in order to buy another start going forward. Otherwise, he’s going to be relegated to little more than an innings-eater at this point. The good news: the Mariners offense is not that great. Perhaps just the confidence boost he will need to propel him to the next level…. or not. Game Time will be 7:10 pm. Righty Bryce Miller will be throwing for the M’s. Okay, Walker… put up or shut up time.
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!
