Los Angeles Dodgers lead Atlanta Braves 2-1 in the NLDS after a 5-0 win in Game 3 on October 7.
Yoshinobu Yamamoto started and threw seven innings with ten strikeouts, allowing no runs on three hits. Enrique Hernandez hit a two-run home run in the third inning. Freddie Freeman added an RBI single. The result moves Los Angeles one win from a NLCS berth.
NLDS Game 3 Recap: Yamamoto Pitches Dodgers to 2-1 Series Lead Over Braves
Dodgers won 5-0 at Dodger Stadium. Yamamoto controlled the pace from the first inning. Hernandez provided the early lead with a two-run shot off Braves starter. Freeman extended the lead with a single in the fifth.
ESPN noted the Dodgers’ bullpen did not need to enter. The New York Times Athletic highlighted the Braves left 9 runners on base. Series momentum shifted after Atlanta lost the first two games at home.
Tarik Skubal Reacts: Why Yoshinobu Yamamoto Is the Most Dangerous Postseason Opponent
Detroit Tigers starter Tarik Skubal spoke after his team’s ALDS game. He said Yamamoto is the most dangerous pitcher in the postseason right now.
Skubal referenced Yamamoto’s command of splitter and fastball mix. He compared it to regular season form and said playoff sequencing is sharper. Rivals have begun collective scouting of Japanese pitching mechanics after the Dodgers took the lead.
Breakdown of Yamamoto’s Game 3 Dominance
Yamamoto threw 98 pitches, 68 for strikes. His fastball averaged 97 mph. Splitter generated six called strikes and four swings and misses.
Braves hitters posted a .150 average against him. He induced 12 ground balls. Playoff adjustments included earlier use of splitter in counts.
MLB Division Series Results and NLDS Game 3 Takeaways
Dodgers lead Braves 2-1. Game 4 is scheduled for October 8 in Los Angeles.
Atlanta’s coaching staff is reviewing video of Yamamoto’s release point. Bullpen usage for Los Angeles remains rested. A Dodgers win in Game 4 secures an NLCS appearance. A Braves win forces a decisive Game 5 back in Atlanta.
Commentary: Why Yamamoto’s Playoff Dominance Impresses Everyone, Especially Tarik Skubal
Los Angeles Times reported Skubal’s comment after his start. The Athletic summarized NLDS takeaways from Game 3.
Skubal’s view as a Cy Young contender adds weight to the assessment. Other NLDS opponents are adjusting preparation time for Japanese pitchers.
What the 2-1 Lead Means for Dodgers’ Postseason Run
Teams leading 2-1 in the NLDS win the series 78 percent of the time since 2010.
Dodgers have depth in the lineup with Freeman and Hernandez producing in clutch spots. The next step is closing the series before NLCS matchups are set.
NLCS positioning will depend on the NLDS winner facing the winner of the Phillies-Mets series.
FAQ
Is Yoshinobu Yamamoto the favorite for NLCS MVP?
MVP odds are not finalized until NLCS teams are set. Performance in Game 3 has increased his market profile.
How did Tarik Skubal learn about Yamamoto’s arsenal?
Skubal referenced regular season film and recent playoff outings. He spoke publicly after Detroit’s game.
Can Braves adjust in time for Game 4?
Braves have one day to adjust hitting approach. They will need contact against Yamamoto’s splitter.
💡 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Q: What is the current NLDS series score between Dodgers and Braves?
- A: Los Angeles Dodgers lead Atlanta Braves 2-1 after a 5-0 win in Game 3 on October 7.
- Q: How did Yoshinobu Yamamoto perform in NLDS Game 3?
- A: Yamamoto started and threw seven innings with ten strikeouts, allowing no runs on three hits on 98 pitches with a 97 mph fastball.
- Q: Why did Tarik Skubal call Yoshinobu Yamamoto the most dangerous postseason opponent?
- A: Skubal cited Yamamoto’s command of splitter and fastball mix and sharper playoff sequencing, noting rivals have begun collective scouting of his Japanese pitching mechanics.
Extended Reading
Hots Insight delivers in-depth news analysis, expert commentary, and global perspectives. We go beyond the headlines to explore the forces shaping politics, economics, technology, and culture. Founded in 2026, we are an independent digital publication committed to clarity, context, and thoughtful journalism.
Sources: ESPN MLB story on Yamamoto, Hernandez and Freeman leading Dodgers to 2-1 NLDS lead vs Braves. Los Angeles Times story on Yamamoto playoff dominance impressing Tarik Skubal. New York Times Athletic NLDS Game 3 scores, highlights and takeaways.