Dodgers' Lineup Shift Pays Off as Hernández and Freeman Spark Offense
Dave Roberts' strategic lineup change proves effective with back-to-back home runs from Kiké Hernández and Freddie Freeman in a crucial playoff game.
Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts' strategic decision to alter the team's batting order for Game 3 of the NLDS against the Atlanta Braves yielded immediate results, as Kiké Hernández and Freddie Freeman delivered a powerful one-two punch in the fourth inning. The offensive surge provided the Dodgers with a crucial 3-0 lead.
An inning after Freddie Freeman narrowly missed a home run, Kiké Hernández stepped up to the plate. Facing a changeup from Braves pitcher Chris Sale, Hernández launched a two-run homer 406 feet into left field. The momentum continued as Freddie Freeman followed suit, crushing a sinker 399 feet to right field for another solo home run just one batter later.
These timely home runs underscore the postseason prowess of both Hernández and Freeman. Freeman, a former MVP, has built a consistent postseason career with a .268 batting average, 82 hits, 17 home runs, and 40 RBIs in 81 playoff games. Kiké Hernández also boasts an impressive postseason record, holding a .272 average with 80 hits, 16 home runs, and 42 RBIs.
The lineup change saw Freeman move up to the second spot in the order, batting behind Mookie Betts, while Hernández was placed in the ninth position. This tactical adjustment, made on the same day Shohei Ohtani was moved to fifth in the lineup, has so far proven successful, with the Dodgers establishing a 3-1 lead in the series.
