The Los Angeles Dodgers' recent three-game sweep of the Colorado Rockies in Denver served as a reminder for veteran shortstop Mookie Betts of the championship DNA that fueled their World Series triumph last year.
"Just got to win the big moments. That’s usually how you win the games," Betts said, reflecting on the team's performance. The series marked the Dodgers' first road sweep in nearly two months.
Betts played a pivotal role in the series, particularly in the decisive 6-4 extra-inning victory on Wednesday. After a difficult stretch of hitting, he went 3-for-5 with a home run and an RBI single in the 10th inning. "Especially after a rough day yesterday," Betts added, "I really wanted to come and help the boys today."
Other Dodgers hitters also found their rhythm during the series. Kyle Tucker, who had been in a slump, provided key singles that sparked scoring rallies. Kiké Hernández contributed with a home run and multiple hits, performances manager Dave Roberts hopes will build confidence.
Despite the successful sweep, the Dodgers encountered challenges. They relinquished an early four-run lead on Wednesday due to a defensive misplay and a seventh-inning game-tying home run surrendered by the bullpen. "Sometimes, there’ll be a stretch in a game where we may have a couple bad innings," Betts acknowledged.
However, the team's ability to respond to adversity in crucial situations was evident. Relievers Brock Stewart, Jack Dreyer, and Kyle Hurt delivered scoreless innings to force extra innings. Freddie Freeman drove in a go-ahead run with a sacrifice fly in the 10th, and Tanner Scott secured the save.
"[We were] winning those moments," Betts stated. "Kind of like in the World Series last year."
This successful series came after a challenging period for the Dodgers, who had lost 11 of their previous 16 games, slipping from the top seed in the National League playoff race. "A week ago, we were in a dark place," Roberts commented. "So it was just good to see us come back this series and play the way we’re capable of."