Sign In A.J. Hinch is making his return to Major League Baseball. The former Astros manager was suspended for the 2020 abbreviated season following his involvement in Houston’s sign-stealing scandal during the team’s 2017 title run. But the Detriot Tigers on Friday announced that Hinch will be their new manager next season. As part of…
Tigers Announce A.J. Hinch As Next Next Manager With Suspension Over — NESN.com
3,000 KN95 masks and 1,300 pre-loaded Clipper Cards to be distributed11:32 AM PDT
OAKLAND, Calif. – The Oakland A’s are providing 3,000 KN95 masks and 1,300 pre-loaded Clipper cards to help ensure the most vulnerable Alameda County residents can vote safely in the 2020 General Election. The team is partnering with the Alameda County Health Care for the Homeless, AC Transit, Metropolitan Transportation Commission (MTC), and social service agencies on the initiative.
Beginning on Wednesday, Oct. 28 and through Election Day on Tuesday, Nov. 3, the masks and Clipper cards, each loaded with an AC Transit one-day local pass, are being distributed to residents of local shelters, RV sites, and homeless encampments in Alameda County. In partnership with the A’s, Alameda County Health Care for the Homeless, Bay Area Community Services, Downtown Streets Team, East Oakland Collective, and LavaMae are helping with the distribution.
“We are proud to do our part to provide adequate PPE for unhoused citizens in our community,” said Oakland A’s President Dave Kaval. “We felt it was also important to ensure these residents can safely travel to Accessible Voting Locations by providing Clipper cards. We thank our incredible partners, Alameda County Health Care for the Homeless, AC Transit, Metropolitan Transportation Commission, and a number of local social service agencies for their partnership and support.”
“People experiencing homelessness face numerous barriers which limit their participation in the election process,” said Colleen Chawla, Director, Alameda County Health Care Services Agency. “We are teaming up with the Oakland A’s to ensure all people have a voice in shaping their future and the opportunity to get out and vote safely.”
“This year will be no ordinary election largely because COVID-19 has changed the way we cast our votes,” says Michael Hursh, AC Transit General Manager. “We have, however, confronted the challenge head-on: our entire bus fleet has retrofitted Bus Operator Shields, onboard facemasks and hand sanitizer dispensers, social distancing mandates, and contactless payment devices for Clipper Card. All of which ensures AC Transit will continue its 60-year tradition of getting East Bay voters to the polls.”
“MTC thanks the A’s for the opportunity to join the team ensuring vulnerable citizens can not only get out to vote, but can do so safely,” said Andrew Fremier, the Commission’s Deputy Executive Director for Operations. “We appreciate the work being done by many local social service agencies to distribute the Clipper cards and masks in order to encourage voting.”
In an effort to make sure all Alameda County residents have a safe and easily accessible voting option, the A’s also joined the California Secretary of State Alex Padilla, Alameda County, and the Coliseum Authority (JPA) to create the Coliseum Accessible Voting Location. The vote center, which opens on Saturday, Oct. 31 through Tuesday, Nov. 3, is open to all Alameda County residents.
For more information, visit. athletics.com/vote.Read more:
https://www.mlb.com/athletics/press-releahttps://www.mlb.com/athletics/press-release/press-release-a-s-provide-masks-and-clipper-cards-to-help-alameda-county-s-most-se/press-release-a-s-provide-masks-and-clipper-cards-to-help-alameda-county-s-most-
NEW YORK CITY FC (1) – TORONTO FC (0) POST MATCH SUMMARY
SCORING SUMMARY
NYCFC – Jesus Medina 51’
MISCONDUCT SUMMARY
TFC – Justin Morrow 3’ (caution)
NYCFC – Alexander Callens 45’ +1 (caution)
NYCFC – Valentin Castellanos 75’ (caution)
NYCFC – Jesus Medina 90’+2 (caution)
RECORDS
TORONTO FC: 12-4-5 41 PTS.
NEW YORK CITY FC: 10-8-3 33 PTS.
LINE-UPS
TORONTO FC – Quentin Westberg; Richie Laryea, Omar Gonzalez, Laurent Ciman, Tony Gallacher; Michael Bradley (C), Liam Fraser (Ralph Priso 76’), Justin Morrow (Jacob Shaffelburg 59’), Alejandro Pozuelo, Nick DeLeon (Jayden Nelson 82’); Patrick Mullins (Tsubasa Endoh 59’)
Substitutes Not Used: Kevin Silva, Chris Mavinga, Eriq Zavaleta, Erickson Gallardo, Jahkeele Marshall-Rutty
NEW YORK CITY FC – Sean Johnson; Anton Tinnerholm, Maxime Chanot, Alexander Callens, Ronald Matarrita; Keaton Parks (Nicolas Acevedo 82’), Alexander Ring, Maximilian Moralez, Jesus Medina, Gary Mackay-Steven (Gudmundur Thorarinsson 72’); Valentin Castellanos (Sebastien Ibeagha 88’)
Substitutes Not Used: Brad Stuver, Luis Barraza, Joe Scally, Tony Rocha, Juan Torres, Justin Haak
GREG VANNEY – HEAD COACH, TORONTO FC
Can you assess the performance?
“It was going to be a challenging night, obviously. I’m not going to make anything about players who weren’t there, but we felt like we needed to come out tonight and try to manufacture some chances. I thought right at the start, Michael plays a ball forward to Pozuelo. We’ve got to turn to get a shot off there. I thought Justin had a couple chances in the first half. They had their chances. But I would say half to three quarters of their chances were actually delayed offside calls they either called or didn’t call, which changes the emotion of the game. Because they don’t actually blow the whistle sometimes, but the linesman’s lifting up the flag after the whole thing happens. So, it feels like you give away chances when some of those weren’t actually going to be chances anyways. But having said that, the first half the game was definitely wide open with them getting most of the ball. We were trying to get some pressure on the ball. When that part of the game was over, we needed to just find our shape and defend a little bit more connected. But we’re still trying to get pressure to the ball and getting pulled apart a little bit. We dealt with a lot of that stuff and got through the half. We reorganized a bit just in terms of our set defending. In general, I thought we found our way into the game as the game continued. We had fewer chances in the second half, but we started to gain a little bit more control of the game and start to play in possession a little bit more. But we were fighting against trying to have a good response from the last game, in which we didn’t get out and compete. I thought tonight we competed. I thought guys worked really hard, some of it effective, some of it not as effective as we’d like. But we created some chances we knew we would have to manufacture. We gave up some chances too, but we’ve got to execute on the one or two that we thought we were going to get. Tough opponent, tough situation, but I’m proud of at least the effort the guys put in and then the shift that they put in to try to get something out of the game.”
Is the Supporters Shield still something you guys are discussing?
“It is what it is. We are trying to gain points every single game. Guys who are having to step into spots are trying to step in and make the most of their opportunity. And we’re trying to win games against good teams. So, at least tonight … you know the other night, I thought just the speed of it, we never really got onto it. But tonight, I felt like we did. Points are always a product of being able to execute over the course of the game. So right now, we’re pretty thin, in terms of the guys who played the majority of the minutes for us over the course of the season. And now we’re in the tail stretch. The five in 15 took a toll on us for sure and, at this point it’s Do you continue to risk guys and lose guys? For the short term … anybody you lose at this point you’re probably going to lose for the playoffs. So, there’s always that as a Catch 22. We’re trying to work with our doctors. We are trying to work with everybody that’s involved to try to make the best decisions for our guys. So that is where we’re at. And so, the key for us is to try to take as many points as we can but also to try to get our team whole. Because when all the guys are together, we have seen that we’re capable of being the best team in the league. On any given day that’s been proven. So, the question is how do we get our team healthy without losing more guys in this last stretch. And if we can win the Supporters Shield in that process, then that’s what we’re going to try to do. We’re not giving up on it, but we are what we are right now is as a group. And we have what we have. All I’m asking from these guys right now is that they give everything they have to each one of these games. And we work hard to try to get the result we can get.”
Can you talk about the young players, Shaffelburg, Nelson and Priso, who came into the game?
“I’d love to. These are big games. With a lot riding on them. So just for their development and their experiences that they’re putting under their belt. Normally this time of year they probably wouldn’t be the second, third, fourth guys off the bench. But given the circumstances they are. And they came on and they were brave. They went after the game and tried to stay aggressive both with the ball and tried to help us defensively to recover the ball. Each one of these experiences is huge for them. These aren’t meaningless games. These are important games for their learning and they’re showing that they’re willing to get out there and compete and do a nice job for us. And they did. So that bodes well for their learning and their development and their future with the club.”
JAYDEN NELSON – MIDFIELDER, TORONTO FC
What was is like getting more minutes tonight
“Well obviously it’s a tough loss. I just wanted to get out there and try to make a difference and get a goal or something, but it didn’t happen, we worked hard the entire game, we didn’t really get in our rhythm but it was a tough loss.”
It’s easy to get down on yourselves when results don’t go your way and when the year’s been as crazy as it’s been, but what’s the mood like?
“We’re a resilient group and we work hard in training every day. We’re defiantly going to bounce back from this, we’re not going to dwell on this loss, we still have two more games to go so that’s our main focus right now, we put this behind us and we’re ready for Miami and New York.”
It looks like you’re more comfortable out there after a few appearances…
“When I first started, I just wanted to gain more trust with the coach and I feel like I am and I just wanted to show more of my abilities and see what I can do for the team and show that to everyone, so I guess that’s what you’re seeing.”
-TORONTO FOOTBALL CLUB-
The 116th
World Series
Los Angeles Dodgers vs. Tampa Bay Rays
Sunday, October 25, 2020
World Series Game Five Notes
Globe Life Field, Arlington, Texas
2020 WORLD SERIES SCHEDULE
GAME DAY/DATE SITE FIRST PITCH (ET/SITE) TV/RADIO
5 Sunday, October 25th Globe Life Field 8:08 p.m. / 7:08 p.m. FOX/ESPN Radio
Monday, October 26th OFF DAY
6 Tuesday, October 27th Globe Life Field 8:08 p.m. / 7:08 p.m. FOX/ESPN Radio
7* Wednesday, October 28th Globe Life Field 8:09 p.m. / 7:09 p.m. FOX/ESPN Radio
*If Necessary
2020 WORLD SERIES PROBABLE PITCHERS (Regular Season/Postseason)
Game 5 at Arlington: Clayton Kershaw (6-2, 2.16, 62 SO / 3-1, 2.88, 31 SO) vs. Tyler Glasnow (5-1, 4.08, 91 SO / 2-2, 6.08, 33 SO)
Game 6 at Arlington: TBD vs. Blake Snell (4-2, 3.24, 63 SO / 2-2, 3.33, 28 SO)
116th
WORLD SERIES
• 2020 marks the 116th renewal of the World Series
featuring the champions of the American League against
the champions of the National League. The Fall Classic
was first played in 1903, and has taken place every year
since 1904, when the National League champion New
York Giants and their manager John McGraw refused to
play the AL champs, the Boston Red Sox, and in 1994,
when the season ended on August 11th due to the players’
strike.
THE FALL CLASSIC AT 2-2
• With the Rays win tonight, this marks the 47th time in World
Series history that the series has been tied at two games
apiece, the third year over a four-year span (2017, 2019),
and the fifth time in 10 years (also 2011 and 2013). • Of the previous 46 times that a World Series is tied,
2-2, the winner of Game Five has gone on to win the
series 30 times (65.2%), including six times in the last 14
occasions. Those were the Yankees in 1996, the Marlins
in 1997 and 2003, the Red Sox in 2013, the Giants in
2014 and the Astros in 2017. The seven teams to lose
the Series in that span after winning Game Five all lost
the series in seven games, including: Brewers in 1982;
Red Sox in 1986; Cardinals in 1987; Braves in 1991;
Yankees in 2001; Giants in 2002; Rangers in 2011; and
the Nationals in 2019.
RAYS AT 2-2
• This is the fourth time in franchise history that the Rays
have been tied 2-2 in a Postseason series, previously
doing so in this year’s ALDS against the Yankees, the
2019 ALDS against the Astros and the 2010 ALDS againt
the Rangers. Tampa Bay went on to lose both series. It
is the first time to occur in a best-of-seven Postseason
series.
DODGERS AT 2-2
• This is the 15th time since 1900 that the Dodgers have
been tied at two games apiece in any best-of-seven
Postseason series, most recently in the 2018 NLCS in
which they went on to defeat the Brewers. Overall, the
Dodgers went on to win the series five times.
• This is the 11th time since 1900 that Los Angeles has
been tied at two games in a Fall Classic, most recently in
the 2017 World Series in which they ultimately fell to the
Astros in seven games. Overall, the Dodgers went on to
win the Fall Classic three times (1981, 1965, 1955).
GAME FOUR RESULTS
• The Rays improved to 5-5 all-time in Game Four of a
Postseason series. The Rays are now 1-1 in Game Four
of the Fall Classic, previously losing to the Phillies in
Game Four of the 2018 Fall Classic. Tampa Bay is now
1-2 this Postseason in Game Four. • The Dodgers fell to 20-23 all-time in Game Four of a
Postseason series. The Dodgers are now 9-12 in Game
Four of the Fall Classic. Los Angeles is now 0-2 this
Postseason in Game Four, also losing to the Braves in
in the NLCS.
A GAME FOUR TO REMEMBER
• Last night’s historic contest marked the first walk-off win
in a World Series game since the Dodgers defeated the
Red Sox in Game Three of the 2018 Fall Classic. • It also marked just the third World Series game in
history to end with a team’s walk-off while trailing and
down to their final out, previously accomplished by the
1988 Dodgers (G1) and the 1947 Dodgers (G4).
• There was at least one run scored in eight consecutive
half innings last night, the longest streak in World Series
history, according to the Elias Sports Bureau.
• It also marked the first game in Fall Classic history that
both Clubs scored in three straight innings.
The Rays utilized 21 different players, matching the
record for a nine-inning World Series game, previously
accomplished by the 1947 Yankees and 1961 Reds.
• The Rays (7) and Dodgers (6) also combined for 13
pitchers, the most in World Series history for a nineinning game.
RANDY’S HISTORIC RUN
• Randy Arozarena delivered a solo home run in the fourth
inning last night, his ninth round-tripper of the 2020
playoffs, establishing a new Major League record for a
single Postseason.
• His nine home runs also match Evan Longoria for the
most career home runs in Rays Postseason history.
• Randy’s 26 hits this Postseason match Pablo Sandoval
(26 H, 2014) for the MLB Postseason record.
• Randy’s 26 hits trail only BJ Upton (27) for the most
career hits in Rays Postseason history.
• Arozarena also holds the MLB Postseason record
for the most total bases (59) in a single Postseason,
surpassing the mark held by David Freese (50) in 2011.
• Arozarena also notched his fifth three-hit game of the
2020 Postseason, establishing an MLB record for the
most in a single Postseason.
• His 13 extra-base hits this Postseason are one shy of the
major league record held by STL David Freese (2011)
KEYSTONE POWER
• Brandon Lowe delivered a clutch three-run homer in the
sixth inning last night to give the Rays a 5-4 lead. It was
his third round-tripper of the 2020 Fall Classic, and he
now has the most World Series homers in Rays history.
• Lowe’s three homers are tied for sixth-most by a second
baseman in World Series history. Only Chase Utley (7),
Billy Martin (5), Joe Gordon (4), Davey Lopes (4) and
Tony Lazzeri (4) recorded more. • In addition, his three homers in a single Fall Classic rank
tied for second with Lopes (1978) and Jeff Kent (2002),
and trail only Utley’s five homers in 2009.
LOVING THE LONG BALL
• With home runs by Randy Arozarena, Brandon Lowe,
Hunter Renfroe and Kevin Kiermaier, the Rays extended
their MLB Postseason record and have now clubbed 33
round-trippers during their 2020 playoff run. The previous
record of 27 was shared by the 2017 Astros and 2002
Giants, and was matched tonight by the 2020 Dodgers.
• The four homers are a World Series record for the Rays
and match the franchise’s Postseason record, previously
accomplished in Game Two of the 2020 ALDS, Game
Three of the 2019 ALDS, the 2019 AL Wild Card and
Game Three of the 2008 ALCS.
RED OCTOBER
• Justin Turner clubbed a solo home run in the first
inning last night, his 12th career Postseason home run.
He surpassed Duke Snider and now holds the franchise
record.
• His 12 homers are the most by a third baseman in Postseason history, surpassing the mark of 11 previously
held by Alex Bregman and Chipper Jones.
• With his round-tripper in the first inning, he became the
first player in history to homer in consecutive first innings
of a pair of World Series games.
• Turner also logged his 19th career Postseason double,
extending his franchise record. He surpassed Jones for
the most career Postseason doubles by a third baseman
in MLB history.
• Turner’s two extra-base hit game was the fifth of his
Postseason career, tied with Snider for the franchise
record.
SEARING SEAGER
• In the third inning, Corey Seager slugged his eighth
home run of the 2020 Postseason. Seager matched
Nelson Cruz (2011), Carlos Beltrán (2004) and
Barry Bonds (2002) for the second-most in a single
Postseason, trailing only Randy Arozarena, who clubbed
his ninth home run of the 2020 playoffs in Game Four.
• The round-tripper was also the 11th Postseason homer
of his career, matching Duke Snider for the second-most
in franchise history. Earlier in the game, Justin Turner
clubbed a home run to establish a new Club mark (12).
• Seager now has three career World Series home runs,
matching Carlos Correa and Derek Jeter for the most by
a shortstop in Major League history.
• He became the first Major Leaguer since Kris Bryant
(2016 G6) to notch four hits and a home run in a Fall
Classic contest. Marked just the 19th such game in World
Series history. He joined Robin Yount (1982 G5) as the
only shortstops to accomplish the feat in history.
DYNAMIC DUO
• Corey Seager and Justin Turner became the fourth pair
of teammates to both log at least four hits in a World
Series game, joining Paul Molitor and Robin Yount of the
Brewers in 1982; White Kurowski and Enos Slaughter
of the Cardinals in 1946; and George Burns and Frank
Snyder of the Giants in 1921, according to the Elias
Sports Bureau. • Seager and Turner also became the third and fourth
players in team history to tally four hits in a World
Series game, joining Maury Wills (1965 G5) and Jim
Gilliam (1959 G5).
TWO-OUT PROWESS
• The Dodgers tallied seven two-out RBI last night. Their
55 two-out RBI this Postseason surpassed the previous
record of 45 held by the 2004 Boston Red Sox for the
most in a single Postseason since 1999, according to the
Elias Sports Bureau.
• The Dodgers became the first team in World Series
history to score with two outs in six different innings of a
single contest.
MULTI-DINGER DODGERS
• With multiple home runs last night, the Dodgers have
now clubbed multiple homers in seven consecutive
Postseason games, establishing an MLB Postseason
record. The previous mark of six straight games was
held by the Yankees (2019-2020).
CREAM OF THE CROP
• This year’s Fall Classic features Clubs with the best
overall record from each league for the first time since
the Cardinals and Red Sox in 2013. Overall, it marks the
13th such matchup since 1969.
Game Five Notes – Sunday, October 25, 2020
Year AL Team Record NL Team Record
2020 Tampa Bay 40-20 LA Dodgers 43-17
2013 Boston 97-65 St. Louis 97-65
1999 NY Yankees 98-64 Atlanta 103-59
1995 Cleveland 100-44 Atlanta 90-54
1992 Toronto 96-66 Atlanta 98-64
1986 Boston 108-54 NY Mets 108-54
1982 Milwaukee 95-67 St. Louis 92-70
1979 Baltimore 102-57 Pittsburgh 98-64
1978 NY Yankees 100-63 LA Dodgers 95-67
1976 NY Yankees 97-62 Cincinnati 102-60
1971 Baltimore 101-57 Pittsburgh 97-65
1970 Baltimore 108-54 Cincinnati 102-60
1969 Baltimore 109-53 NY Mets 100-62
• Should the Dodgers claim this year’s Commissioner’s
Trophy, they would become just the seventh World
Series winner in the Wild Card Era to also have posted
the best regular season record in the Majors. This was
previously accomplished by the 2018 Red Sox; the 2016
Cubs; the 2013 Red Sox; the 2009 Yankees; the 2007
Red Sox; and the 1998 Yankees.
THE MANAGERS
Kevin Cash is in his sixth full season with the Rays, and is
making his first appearance in the Fall Classic.
• Cash has guided the Rays to a 454-416 (.522) record
during his six years at the helm.
• Cash became the fifth manager in Rays history and is
already the second-longest tenured behind only Joe
Maddon (2006-14).
• Across Baseball, is the third-longest tenured manager
with his current team behind Oakland’s Bob Melvin (9)
and Cleveland’s Terry Francona (8).
• Finished third in 2018 and 2019 AL Manager of the Year
voting. Was behind Rocco Baldelli (MIN) and Aaron
Boone (NYY) in 2019, and Bob Melvin (OAK) and Alex
Cora (BOS) in 2018.
• At age-41 during the 2019 season, became the youngest
AL East manger to lead his team to the Postseason
since 1995, when Buck Showalter of the Yankees (age
39) and Kevin Kennedy of the Red Sox (age 41) both
accomplished the feat.
• Played eight seasons at the Major League level across
stints with the Blue Jays (2002-04), Rays (2005), Red
Sox (2007-08), Yankees (2009), Astros (2010) and Red
Sox (2010).
Dave Roberts is in his fifth season as manager of the
Dodgers, and has made an appearance in each Postseason
as skipper.
• Roberts piloted the Dodgers to a 436-273 (.615) record
across his five seasons at the helm.
• Prior to being named manager of the Club in 2016,
Roberts lost his lone game as interim manager of the San
Diego Padres in 2015.
• Is the first manager in Baseball history to guide the
Dodgers to the Postseason in each of his first five
seasons with the Club.
• Roberts’ Dodgers won a franchise-record 106 game
during the 2019 season.
• In his first season as manager in 2016, was named
NL Manager of the Year, joining Hall of Famer Tommy
Lasorda (1983, 88) as the only managers in Club history
to win the award since its inception in 1983.
• Across 10 Major League seasons, played for the Indians
(1999-2001), Dodgers (2002-04), Red Sox (2004),
Padres (2005-06) and Giants (2007-08).
GAME FIVE STARTERS
KERSHAW: Across 36 career Postseason appearances,
including 29 starts, Clayton is 12-12 with 201 strikeouts, 48
walks and a 4.22 ERA over 183.1 inniags pitched.
• Has made six career World Series appearances, including
five starts. Enters play with a 2-2 record to go along with
a 4.68 ERA and 35:9 strikeout-to-walk ratio.
• Has made four starts during the 2020 Postseason,
including a pair of victories and 2.88 ERA over 25.0
innings of work. Notched 31 strikeouts and just three
walks while allowing 18 hits.
• Kershaw started Game 2 of the NL Wild Card vs.
Milwaukee (3-0 win); Game 2 of the NLDS vs. San Diego
(6-5 win); Game 4 of the NLCS at Atlanta (2-10 loss); and
Game 1 of the World Series vs. Tampa Bay (8-3 win).
• In Game 1, Kershaw became just the second pitcher
in Postseason history to register 200 career strikeouts,
joining Justin Verlander. Verlander holds the Postseason
record with 205 career punchouts. Kershaw (201)
surpassed Hall of Famer John Smoltz (199) for secondmost all-time.
• In addition, the start was Kershaw’s ninth career
Postseason outing in which he tossed at least 6.0 innings
without allowing more than one walk or a single earned
run, the most of any pitcher in Baseball history.
• During the regular season, Kershaw posted a 6-2 record
with 62 punchouts, eight walks, 41 hits and a 2.16 ERA
across 10 starts and 58.1 innings.
• Across both regular season and Postseason action,
Hunter Renfroe has logged the most career at-bats
against Kershaw, going 3-for-24 (.125) with a home run
and RBI. Manuel Margot is 5-for-24 (.208) with a double;
Austin Meadows is 1-for-6 (.167); Brandon Lowe is 0-for6 (.000); Willy Adames and Mike Zunino are both 0-for-4
(.000); Yandy Díaz is 1-for-3 (.333); Ji-Man Choi is 0-for3 (.000); Kevin Kiermaier is 1-for-2 (.500) with a home
run and RBI; and Randy Arozarena and Joey Wendle ar
both 0-for-2 (.000).
GLASNOW: Across seven career Postseason appearances
(all starts), Tyler is 2-4 with 41 strikeouts, 17 walks, 29 hits
and a 6.46 ERA over 30.2 innings pitched.
• Has made five starts during the 2020 Postseason, going
2-2 with a 6.08 ERA and a 33:14 strikeout-to-walk ratio
over 23.2 innings of work. Has surrendered seven home
runs and 20 hits.
• Glasnow started Game 2 of the AL Wild Card vs. Toronto
(8-2 win); Game 2 of the ALDS vs. NY Yankees (7-5 win);
Game 5 of the ALDS vs. NY Yankees (2-1 win); Game 4
of the ALCS at Houston (3-4 loss); and Game 1 of the
World Series (3-8 loss).
• Made his Fall Classic debut in Game 1. Became the
sixth pitcher in World Series history to tally at least eight
strikeouts while pitching fewer than 5.0 innings, joining
Justin Verlander (2006 G1), Jason Schmidt (2002 G5),
Bob Welch (1988 G3), Roger Craig (1964 G4) and Ryne
Duren (1958 G6).
• His eight strikeouts established a franchise record for the
most strikeouts in a Fall Classic contest.
• During the regular season, Glasnow delivered a 5-1
record with 91 punchouts, 22 walks, 43 hits and a 4.08
ERA across 11 starts and 57.1 innings.
• Glasnow’s 14.28 SO/9 IP ratio led the Majors (min: 50 IP)
and was the second-highest in Club history behind Brad
Boxberger (14.47) in 2014.
• Across both regular season and Postseason play,
Mookie Betts has logged the most career at-bats against
Glasnow, batting 3-for-11 (.273) with a double. Cody
Game Five Notes – Sunday, October 25, 2020
Bellinger is 3-for-4 (.750) with three home runs and five
RBI; Max Muncy and Joc Pederson are both 0-for-4
(.000); Chris Taylor is 2-for-3 (.667) with two RBI; Will
Smith is 1-for-3 (.333) with an RBI; Justin Turner is 0-for3 (.000); AJ Pollock is 1-for-2 (.500) with a triple; Austin
Barnes is 0-for-2 (.000); Kike Hernández is 0-for-1 (.000);
and Corey Seager has drawn a walk in each of his three
career plate appearances.
ROOF CHECK
• The roof is expected to be open for tonight’s contest. • During the 2020 regular season, the roof was open on
six occasions, resulting in 11.83 runs per game. In 24
games with the roof closed, 8.21 runs per game were
averaged (courtesy of Rangers PR).
FAMILIAR TERRITORY
• The Los Angeles Dodgers secured their 21st NL Pennant
in franchise history, the most of any NL Club and secondmost all-time behind the Yankees (40). • The Dodgers became just the second team since 1969
to represent the NL in the World Series three times
across four Postseasons (2017-18, 2020), joining the
Atlanta Braves, who earned four NL Pennants across five
Postseasons from 1991-96 (excluding 1993).
RELATIVE NEWCOMERS
• The Tampa Bay Rays are appearing in just their second
World Series in franchise history. In their lone appearance
in 2008, the Rays were defeated by the Phillies in five
games.
COMING IN HOT
• The Dodgers won three consecutive games while facing
elimination to win the NLCS, marking the second time
that the Clubs has accomplished the feat during a
Postseason series. During the 1981 NLDS against the
Houston Astros, the Dodgers won three straight after
falling behind two game-to-none in the best-of-five series. • The Dodgers became the eighth team in Postseason
history to accomplish the feat in a best-of-seven LCS
series, joining the 2012 Giants; the 2007 Red Sox; the
2004 Red Sox (4); the 2003 Marlins; the 1996 Braves;
the 1986 Red Sox; and the 1985 Royals.
TAKING THE LONG ROUTE
• This year’s ALCS marked just the second in Major League
history to feature a decisive Game 7 after one Club held a
3-0 series lead. The 2004 ALCS was the only other such
occurrence, which saw the Boston Red Sox complete the
series comeback against the New York Yankees en route
to their World Series crown. • Following a sweep of the Blue Jays, the Rays required five
games to defeat the Yankees in the ALDS and all seven
games against the Astros to advance to the Fall Classic.
The Rays became the ninth Club in Postseason history to
play a “winner-take-all” game in both the Division Series
and Championship Series, joining the 2017 Yankees; the
2012 Giants; the 2012 Cardinals; the 2004 Astros; the
2003 Cubs; the 2003 Red Sox; the 1981 Dodgers; and
the 1981 Expos.
TITLE TOWN(S) USA
• Both cities of Los Angeles and Tampa Bay enter the 2020
Fall Classic having already secured a championship
in one of the other ‘Big Four’ professional sports. The
Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Miami Heat to claim
the NBA’s Larry O’Brien Trophy, while the Tampa Bay
Lightning defeated the Dallas Stars to garner the Stanley
Cup. • Should the Dodgers emerge victorious from this year’s
Fall Classic, it would mark the first time since 1988
that Los Angeles enjoyed a pair of champions in the
same year. The City of LA became the first and still is
only city to have the NBA champion and World Series
champion in the same year. It is worth noting that in
2002, the Anaheim Angels and Lakers also both won
their respective championships. • Tampa Bay is vying to become just the third city in history
to have a World Series champion and Stanley Cup
champion in the same year. The feat was accomplished
by New York twice – first in 1928 with the New York
Yankees and New York Rangers, and again in 1933 with
the New York Giants and New York Rangers.
COAST TO COAST
• For the fifth time since Major League Baseball began the
six-division format in 1994, the Fall Classic is featuring
teams from the NL West and the AL East. • The Red Sox defeated the Dodgers in 2018; the Red
Sox defeated the Rockies in 2007; the Diamondbacks
defeated the Yankees in 2001; and the Yankees defeated
the Padres in 1998.
BEEN HERE BEFORE
Of the 56 players that were on the Dodgers and Rays LCS
rosters, 18 have previous World Series experience, including
17 from the Dodgers.
• Los Angeles: Pedro Báez (2018 Dodgers), Austin Barnes
(2017-18 Dodgers), Cody Bellinger (2017-18 Dodgers),
Mookie Betts (2018 Red Sox), Walker Buehler (2018
Dodgers), Dylan Floro (2018 Dodgers), Kiké Hernández
(2017-18 Dodgers), Kenley Jansen (2017-18 Dodgers),
Joe Kelly (2013 Cardinals, 2018 Red Sox), Clayton
Kershaw (2017-18 Dodgers), Max Muncy (2018 Dodgers),
Joc Pederson (2017-18 Dodgers), Corey Seager (2017
Dodgers), Chris Taylor (2017-18 Dodgers), Justin Turner
(2017-18 Dodgers), Julio Urías (2018 Dodgers), Alex
Wood (2017-18 Dodgers) • Tampa Bay: Charlie Morton (2017 Astros)
ALL AROUND THE WORLD
• According to each Club’s WS rosters, the teams combine
for 15 foreign-born players. The 15 players hail from the
Dominican Republic (four – Willy Adames, Pedro Báez,
Diego Castillo, Manuel Margot); Puerto Rico (three – Kiké
Hernández, Michael Perez, Edwin Ríos); Cuba (twoRandy Arozarena, Yandy Díaz); Mexico (two – Victor
González, Julio Urías); Curaçao (one – Kenley Jansen);
Japan (one – Yoshitomo Tsutsugo); South Korea (one –
Ji-Man Choi); and Venezuela (one – Brusdar Graterol). • With his start at first base in Game Three, Ji-Man Choi
became the first Korean-born position player to appear in
a World Series game. He also became the first Koreanborn player to record a hit.
WORLD SERIES UMPIRES
• Bill Miller will serve as primary Crew Chief for the umpires
in the 2020 World Series, and this will be the fourth Fall
Classic for Miller (2010, 13, 17). Miller, who will be in left
field for Game Five, will be joined by (with Game Five
Assignments and number of World Series appearances,
including 2020) Laz Diaz (2B, third), Chris Guccione (RF,
second), Marvin Hudson (HP, second), Jerry Meals (Off,
second), Mark Carlson (1B, second) and Todd Tichenor
(3B, first). Meals served as the crew chief in Game Two
of the World Series. The Replay Official during the World
Series will be Major League Umpire Adrian Johnson, who
will be assisted by Major League Umpire David Rackley.
MLB is deeply saddened by the passing of 34-year Major
League Umpire Derryl Cousins at the age of 74. The Californian worked nearly 4,500 games and three World
Series (1988, 1999, 2005) and was behind the plate for White
Sox clincher in 2005.
A report by Rebecca Clancy for The Times of London. Lewis Hamilton battled a poor start and “excruciating pain” to claim victory at the Portugal Grand Prix to become the most successful race winner in Formula One history. Yesterday’s victory in the Algarve was the 35-year-old’s 92nd of his career and came only two weeks […]
Peerless Lewis Hamilton surpasses Schumacher record in style — Repeating Islands
The 116th
World Series
Los Angeles Dodgers vs. Tampa Bay Rays
Saturday, October 24, 2020
World Series Game Four Notes
Globe Life Field, Arlington, Texas
2020 WORLD SERIES SCHEDULE
GAME DAY/DATE SITE FIRST PITCH (ET/SITE) TV/RADIO
4 Saturday, October 24th Globe Life Field 8:08 p.m. / 7:08 p.m. FOX/ESPN Radio
5 Sunday, October 25th Globe Life Field 8:08 p.m. / 7:08 p.m. FOX/ESPN Radio
Monday, October 26th OFF DAY
6* Tuesday, October 27th Globe Life Field 8:08 p.m. / 7:08 p.m. FOX/ESPN Radio
7* Wednesday, October 28th Globe Life Field 8:09 p.m. / 7:09 p.m. FOX/ESPN Radio
*If Necessary
2020 WORLD SERIES PROBABLE PITCHERS (Regular Season/Postseason)
Game 4 at Arlington: Julio Urías (3-0, 3.27, 45 SO / 4-0, 0.56, 16 SO) vs. Ryan Yarbrough (1-4, 3.56, 44 SO / 1-0, 3.38, 6 SO)
Game 5 at Arlington: Clayton Kershaw (6-2, 2.16, 62 SO / 3-1, 2.88, 31 SO) vs. Tyler Glasnow (5-1, 4.08, 91 SO / 2-2, 6.08, 33 SO)
116th WORLD SERIES
• 2020 marks the 116th renewal of the World Series
featuring the champions of the American League against
the champions of the National League. The Fall Classic
was first played in 1903, and has taken place every year
since 1904, when the National League champion New
York Giants and their manager John McGraw refused to
play the AL champs, the Boston Red Sox, and in 1994,
when the season ended on August 11th due to the players’
strike.
SERIES AT 2-1
• This is the 92nd time in World Series history that the Fall
Classic has stood at 2-1 after three games. It is the
seventh consecutive World Series to sit at 2-1, and it is
the 17th time in the last 20 Series (beginning 2000) it has
occurred.
GAME FOUR SIGNIFICANCE
• Of the previous 91 times that a World Series
has been 2-1, the team leading the series 2-1
has gone on to win the series 60 times (65.9%),
including four in the last seven occurrences (2015
Royals, 2017 Astros, 2018 Red Sox, 2019 Nationals).
The 2013 Cardinals, 2014 Royals and 2016 Indians each
had a 2-1 lead before losing the Fall Classic.
• Of the previous 91 times that the Fall Classic has
been 2-1, the team leading 2-1 has gone on to win the
following game to take a 3-1 series lead 45 times (49.5%).
• Of the 45 teams leading 3-1 to have won Game 4 and
take a 3-1 lead, 38 (84.4%) have gone on to win the
Series (including 1912 Game 5 following Game 2 tie),
including 11 of the last 12 times (Los Angeles in 1988,
Toronto in 1992 and 1993, Atlanta in 1995, New York
Yankees in 2000, St. Louis in 2006, Philadelphia in 2008,
New York in 2009, San Francisco in 2010, Kansas City
in 2015 and Boston in 2018), with the 2016 Cleveland
Indians being the lone exception. Prior to the Indians,
the last team to take a 3-1 series lead and lose the Fall
Classic was the 1985 St. Louis Cardinals.
• Of the 45 teams leading 2-1 that have lost Game
4 to even the Series at two games apiece,
22 (48.9%) have gone on to win the Series,
including three of the last six (2011 Cardinals, 2017
Astros, 2019 Nationals). The 2003 Yankees, 2013
Cardinals and 2014 Royals each lost Game 4 after
holding a 2-1 series lead and went on to lose the World
Series.
GAME THREE RESULTS
• The Dodgers improved to 26-24 all-time in Game 3 of a
Postseason Series. The Dodgers are now 12-9 in Game
3 of the Fall Classic. Los Angeles is now a perfect 3-0
this Postseason in Game 3. • Tampa Bay dropped to 6-4 all-time in Game 3 of a
Postseason series. The Rays are now 0-2 in Game 3 of
the Fall Classic. Tampa Bay is now 2-1 this Postseason
in Game 3.
DODGERS AT 2-1
• This marks the ninth time since 1900 that the Dodgers
have led a best-of-seven Postseason series, 2-1. Of the
previous eight occurrences, the Dodgers went on to win
the series just twice – the 1988 World Series over the
Oakland A’s and the 1959 Fall Classic over the Chicago
White Sox.
RAYS AT 1-2
• This marks the second time in franchise history that
the Rays have faced a 1-2 deficit in a best-of-seven
Postseason series. The Rays ultimately lost the 2008
World Series to the Philadelphia Phillies after falling
behind, 1-2.
2020 WS RESULTS
DATE RESULT WINNING PITCHER LOSING PITCHER SAVE ATTENDANCE
Tuesday, October 20th LAD 8-3 Clayton Kershaw Tyler Glasnow — 11,388
Wednesday, October 21st TB 6-4 Nick Anderson Tony Gonsolin Diego Castillo 11,472
Friday, October 23rd LAD 6-2 Walker Buehler Charlie Morton — 11,447
Game Four Notes – Saturday, October 24, 2020
BUEHLER… BUEHLER
• Walker Buehler tossed 6.0 innings of one-run ball with 10
strikeouts while allowing one run on a walk and three hits
in his start last night.
• Walker became the first pitcher in MLB World Series
history to register at least 10 strikeouts while not pitching
more than 6.0 innings.
• Buehler became the fourth pitcher in franchise history to
record at least 10 punchouts while not permitting more
than one walk in a World Series contest, joining Clayton
Kershaw (2017 G1), Sandy Koufax (1965 G5) and Don
Newcombe (1949 G1).
• He joined Kershaw (2017 G1) and Koufax (1965 G7) as
the only hurlers in franchise history to tally double-digit
punchouts while not surrendering more than three hits.
• Buehler is the fourth pitcher in MLB World Series history
to record at least 10 strikeouts while not allowing more
than three hits and one walk, joining Kershaw in his
aforementioned start, Randy Johnson (2001 G2) and Ed
Walsh (1906 G3).
• Since 1950, he became the eighth pitcher to tally at least
10 punchouts, allow one walk-or-fewer and not surrender
a home run, joining Adam Wainwright (2013 G5), Roger
Clemens (2001 G7), Johnson (2001 G2), Tom Seaver
(1973 G3), Bob Gibson (1968 G1) and Koufax (1965 G5).
• Following his outing last night, Buehler’s 1.28 ERA over
his last nine playoff starts ranks fourth all-time among
hurlers over a nine-start Postseason stretch, trailing only
Curt Schilling (1.14), Orel Hershiser (1.17) and Madison
Bumgarner (1.18).
MOOKIE TIME
• Mookie Betts stole two more bases last night and now has
four this World Series. Mookie matched Davey Lopes for
the most by a Dodgers player in a single Fall Classic.
• Betts’ two games with multiple stolen bases are tied
for the most such games in a single World Series in
history, a record shared by 10 players (11 times) and most
recently accomplished by Omar Vizquel in 1997.
• Mookie became the fifth player in World Series
history to record at least two hits and two stolen bases in
multiple games of a single World Series, joining Bobby
Tolan (1972), Lou Brock (1967), Eddie Collins (1910) and
Jimmy Slagle (1907).
RED OCTOBER
• Justin Turner clubbed a solo home run in the first
inning last night, his 11th career Postseason home run.
He matched Hall of Famer Duke Snider for the franchise
record.
• Turner also logged his 18th career Postseason double,
extending his franchise record.
• He also holds the Club’s Postseason record for hits (75)
and RBI (39).
• Turner’s two extra-base hit game was the fourth of
his Postseason career, tied with Corey Seager for the
second-most in franchise history. Snider holds the
record with five such games.
TWO-OUT PROWESS
• The Dodgers tallied five two-out RBI last night. Their
48 two-out RBI this Postseason surpasses the previous
record of 45 held by the 2004 Boston Red Sox for the
most in a single Postseason since 1999, according to the
Elias Sports Bureau.
RANDY’S RUN CONTINUES
• In the bottom of the ninth inning last night, rookie Randy
Arozarena clubbed his eighth home run of the 2020
Postseason, matching Nelson Cruz (2011), Carlos
Beltrán (2004) and Barry Bonds (2002) for the MLB
Postseason record.
• Arozarena also now holds the MLB Postseason record
for the most total bases (52) in a single Postseason,
surpassing the mark held by David Freese (50) in 2011.
• Randy also holds the rookie record for the most hits in a
single Postseason (23), surpassing the previous record
of 22 held by Derek Jeter (1996).
FIVE-INNING ROAD BLOCK
• Following Charlie Morton’s 4.1 inning-start, the Rays
became the fourth team in World Series history to have
five consecutive starters not reach 5.0 innings (Blake
Snell, 2020 G2; Tyler Glasnow, 2020 G1; Scott Kazmir,
2008 G5; and Andy Sonnanstine, 2008 G4).
• According to Elias, the Rays became the first AL Club to
do so, as it was previously accomplished by the Dodgers
(5G, 2017-18); the Cardinals (5G, 1987-2004); and the
Dodgers (7G, 1947).
TRIAL BY FIRE
• With his appearance in Game Three, Shane McClanahan
became the second player in history to appear in a World
Series game before appearing in a regular season
contest, joining Adalberto Mondesi of the Kansas
City Royals (2015 G3). He became the first pitcher to
accomplish the feat.
CREAM OF THE CROP
• This year’s Fall Classic features Clubs with the best
overall record from each league for the first time since
the Cardinals and Red Sox in 2013. Overall, it marks the
13th such matchup since 1969.
Year AL Team Record NL Team Record
2020 Tampa Bay 40-20 LA Dodgers 43-17
2013 Boston 97-65 St. Louis 97-65
1999 NY Yankees 98-64 Atlanta 103-59
1995 Cleveland 100-44 Atlanta 90-54
1992 Toronto 96-66 Atlanta 98-64
1986 Boston 108-54 NY Mets 108-54
1982 Milwaukee 95-67 St. Louis 92-70
1979 Baltimore 102-57 Pittsburgh 98-64
1978 NY Yankees 100-63 LA Dodgers 95-67
1976 NY Yankees 97-62 Cincinnati 102-60
1971 Baltimore 101-57 Pittsburgh 97-65
1970 Baltimore 108-54 Cincinnati 102-60
1969 Baltimore 109-53 NY Mets 100-62
• Should the Dodgers claim this year’s Commissioner’s
Trophy, they would become just the seventh World
Series winner in the Wild Card Era to also have posted
the best regular season record in the Majors. This was
previously accomplished by the 2018 Red Sox; the 2016
Cubs; the 2013 Red Sox; the 2009 Yankees; the 2007
Red Sox; and the 1998 Yankees.
Game Four Notes – Saturday, October 24, 2020
THE MANAGERS
Kevin Cash is in his sixth full season with the Rays, and is
making his first appearance in the Fall Classic.
• Cash has guided the Rays to a 454-416 (.522) record
during his six years at the helm. • Cash became the fifth manager in Rays history and is
already the second-longest tenured behind only Joe
Maddon (2006-14). • Across Baseball, is the third-longest tenured manager
with his current team behind Oakland’s Bob Melvin (9)
and Cleveland’s Terry Francona (8). • Finished third in 2018 and 2019 AL Manager of the Year
voting. Was behind Rocco Baldelli (MIN) and Aaron
Boone (NYY) in 2019, and Bob Melvin (OAK) and Alex
Cora (BOS) in 2018. • At age-41 during the 2019 season, became the youngest
AL East manger to lead his team to the Postseason
since 1995, when Buck Showalter of the Yankees (age
39) and Kevin Kennedy of the Red Sox (age 41) both
accomplished the feat. • Played eight seasons at the Major League level across
stints with the Blue Jays (2002-04), Rays (2005), Red
Sox (2007-08), Yankees (2009), Astros (2010) and Red
Sox (2010).
Dave Roberts is in his fifth season as manager of the
Dodgers, and has made an appearance in each Postseason
as skipper.
• Roberts piloted the Dodgers to a 436-273 (.615) record
across his five seasons at the helm. • Prior to being named manager of the Club in 2016,
Roberts lost his lone game as interim manager of the San
Diego Padres in 2015. • Is the first manager in Baseball history to guide the
Dodgers to the Postseason in each of his first five
seasons with the Club. • Roberts’ Dodgers won a franchise-record 106 game
during the 2019 season. • In his first season as manager in 2016, was named
NL Manager of the Year, joining Hall of Famer Tommy
Lasorda (1983, 88) as the only managers in Club history
to win the award since its inception in 1983. • Across 10 Major League seasons, played for the Indians
(1999-2001), Dodgers (2002-04), Red Sox (2004),
Padres (2005-06) and Giants (2007-08).
GAME FOUR STARTERS
URÍAS: Across 16 career Postseason appearances, including
two starts, is 6-2 with a 2.84 ERA. Has logged 26 strikeouts,
eight walks and just 20 hits over 31.2 innings pitched.
• Has made four appearances (one start) during the 2020
Postseason, earning the win in each outing to go along
with a miniscule 0.56 ERA. Has logged a 16:3 strikeoutto-walk ratio. • Appeared in Game One of the NL Wild Card against
Milwaukee (4-2 win); Game Three of the NLDS at San
Diego (12-3 win); started in Game Three of the NLCS at
Atlanta (15-3 win); and appeared in Game Seven of the
NLCS vs. Atlanta (4-3 win). • Participated in his first World Series in 2018 against the
Red Sox. Across three relief appearances, allowed three
runs on four hits in 3.2 innings. • Is set to become the fourth Mexican-born pitcher (fifth
time) in MLB history to start a World Series game, joining
Jose Urquidy (2019 G4), Jaime García (2011 G2, G6)
and Dodger legend Fernando Valenzuela (1981 G3). • During the regular season, went a perfect 3-0 with 45
punchouts, 18 walks, 45 hits and a 3.27 ERA across 11
outings (10 starts) and 55.0 innings of work.
• The 24-year-old has made two career appearances
against the Rays, tossing 2.0 innings of shutout relief. • Hunter Renfroe and Manuel Margot have both logged
four at-bats against Urías to pace the Rays. Renfroe
is 1-for-4 (.250); Margot is 1-for-4 (.250) with a double;
Austin Meadows is 0-for-1 (.000); Lowe is 0-for-1 (.000);
Kevin Kiermaier is 0-for-1 (.000); Ji-Man Choi is 0-for-1
(.000); and Mike Brosseau is 0-for-1 (.000).
YARBROUGH: Across six career Postseason appearances,
including one start, is 2-0 with seven strikeouts, four walks,
13 hits and a 2.63 ERA over 13.2 innings pitched.
• Has appeared in three games this Postseason, including
one start, registering a 3.38 ERA to go along with six
strikeouts and three walks across 10.2 innings of work. • Yarbrough appeared in Game Four of the ALDS at NY
Yankees (1-5 loss); started Game Three of the ALCS at
Houston (5-2 win); and appeared in Game One of the
World Series (3-8 loss). • Yarbrough went 5.0 innings of relief in Game Four of
the ALDS, the longest relief appearance in Tampa Bay’s
Postseason history. • Is the second non-opener in franchise history to start
a Postseason game after previously making his Rays
postseason debut in relief, joining David Price (2008). • During the regular season, Yarbrough registered a 1-4
record with 44 hits, 12 walks and 54 hits over 11 outings
(nine starts) and 55.2 innings pitched. • Has never pitched against the Dodgers. • Of players currently on the Dodgers’ World Series roster,
only Mookie Betts has ever faced Yarbrough, going 2-for13 (.154) with a pair of doubles.
OPEN THE ROOF
• Tonight’s World Series contest will have the roof open.
13-of-14 Postseason games at Globe Life Field this year
have had the roof open, excluding last night’s Game
Three. • During the 2020 regular season, the roof was open on
six occasions, resulting in 11.83 runs per game. In 24
games with the roof closed, 8.21 runs per game were
averaged (courtesy of Rangers PR).
FAMILIAR TERRITORY
• The Los Angeles Dodgers secured their 21st NL Pennant
in franchise history, the most of any NL Club and secondmost all-time behind the Yankees (40).
• The Dodgers became just the second team since 1969
to represent the NL in the World Series three times
across four Postseasons (2017-18, 2020), joining the
Atlanta Braves, who earned four NL Pennants across five
Postseasons from 1991-96 (excluding 1993).
RELATIVE NEWCOMERS
• The Tampa Bay Rays are appearing in just their second
World Series in franchise history. In their lone appearance
in 2008, the Rays were defeated by the Phillies in five
games.
COMING IN HOT
• The Dodgers won three consecutive games while facing
elimination to win the NLCS, marking the second time
that the Clubs has accomplished the feat during a
Postseason series. During the 1981 NLDS against the
Houston Astros, the Dodgers won three straight after
falling behind two game-to-none in the best-of-five series.
Game Four Notes – Saturday, October 24, 2020
• The Dodgers became the eighth team in Postseason
history to accomplish the feat in a best-of-seven LCS
series, joining the 2012 Giants; the 2007 Red Sox; the
2004 Red Sox (4); the 2003 Marlins; the 1996 Braves;
the 1986 Red Sox; and the 1985 Royals.
TAKING THE LONG ROUTE
• This year’s ALCS marked just the second in Major League
history to feature a decisive Game 7 after one Club held a
3-0 series lead. The 2004 ALCS was the only other such
occurrence, which saw the Boston Red Sox complete the
series comeback against the New York Yankees en route
to their World Series crown.
• Following a sweep of the Blue Jays, the Rays required five
games to defeat the Yankees in the ALDS and all seven
games against the Astros to advance to the Fall Classic.
The Rays became the ninth Club in Postseason history to
play a “winner-take-all” game in both the Division Series
and Championship Series, joining the 2017 Yankees; the
2012 Giants; the 2012 Cardinals; the 2004 Astros; the
2003 Cubs; the 2003 Red Sox; the 1981 Dodgers; and
the 1981 Expos.
TITLE TOWN(S) USA
• Both cities of Los Angeles and Tampa Bay enter the 2020
Fall Classic having already secured a championship
in one of the other ‘Big Four’ professional sports. The
Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Miami Heat to claim
the NBA’s Larry O’Brien Trophy, while the Tampa Bay
Lightning defeated the Dallas Stars to garner the Stanley
Cup.
• Should the Dodgers emerge victorious from this year’s
Fall Classic, it would mark the first time since 1988
that Los Angeles enjoyed a pair of champions in the
same year. The City of LA became the first and still is
only city to have the NBA champion and World Series
champion in the same year. It is worth noting that in
2002, the Anaheim Angels and Lakers also both won
their respective championships.
• Tampa Bay is vying to become just the third city in history
to have a World Series champion and Stanley Cup
champion in the same year. The feat was accomplished
by New York twice – first in 1928 with the New York
Yankees and New York Rangers, and again in 1933 with
the New York Giants and New York Rangers.
COAST TO COAST
• For the fifth time since Major League Baseball began the
six-division format in 1994, the Fall Classic is featuring
teams from the NL West and the AL East.
• The Red Sox defeated the Dodgers in 2018; the Red
Sox defeated the Rockies in 2007; the Diamondbacks
defeated the Yankees in 2001; and the Yankees defeated
the Padres in 1998.
BEEN HERE BEFORE
Of the 56 players that were on the Dodgers and Rays LCS
rosters, 18 have previous World Series experience, including
17 from the Dodgers.
• Los Angeles: Pedro Báez (2018 Dodgers), Austin Barnes
(2017-18 Dodgers), Cody Bellinger (2017-18 Dodgers),
Mookie Betts (2018 Red Sox), Walker Buehler (2018
Dodgers), Dylan Floro (2018 Dodgers), Kiké Hernández
(2017-18 Dodgers), Kenley Jansen (2017-18 Dodgers),
Joe Kelly (2013 Cardinals, 2018 Red Sox), Clayton
Kershaw (2017-18 Dodgers), Max Muncy (2018 Dodgers),
Joc Pederson (2017-18 Dodgers), Corey Seager (2017
Dodgers), Chris Taylor (2017-18 Dodgers), Justin Turner
(2017-18 Dodgers), Julio Urías (2018 Dodgers), Alex
Wood (2017-18 Dodgers)
• Tampa Bay: Charlie Morton (2017 Astros)
ALL AROUND THE WORLD
• According to each Club’s WS rosters, the teams combine
for 15 foreign-born players. The 15 players hail from the
Dominican Republic (four – Willy Adames, Pedro Báez,
Diego Castillo, Manuel Margot); Puerto Rico (three – Kiké
Hernández, Michael Perez, Edwin Ríos); Cuba (two Randy Arozarena, Yandy Díaz); Mexico (two – Victor González, Julio Urías); Curaçao (one – Kenley Jansen); Japan (one – Yoshitomo Tsutsugo); South Korea (one –
Ji-Man Choi); and Venezuela (one – Brusdar Graterol).
• With his start at first base in Game Three, Ji-Man Choi
became the first Korean-born position player to appear in
a World Series game. He also became the first Koreanborn player to record a hit.
WORLD SERIES UMPIRES
• Bill Miller will serve as primary Crew Chief for the umpires
in the 2020 World Series, and this will be the fourth Fall
Classic for Miller (2010, 13, 17). Miller, who will be in right
field for Game Four, will be joined by (with Game Four
Assignments and number of World Series appearances,
including 2020) Laz Diaz (3B, third), Chris Guccione (HP,
second), Marvin Hudson (Off, second), Jerry Meals (1B,
second), Mark Carlson (2B, second) and Todd Tichenor
(LF, first). Meals served as the crew chief in Game Two
of the World Series. The Replay Official during the World
Series will be Major League Umpire Adrian Johnson, who
will be assisted by Major League Umpire David Rackley.
MLB is deeply saddened by the passing of 34-year Major
League Umpire Derryl Cousins at the age of 74. The
Californian worked nearly 4,500 games and three World
Series (1988, 1999, 2005) and was behind the plate for White
Sox clincher in 2005.
Quickie blog on Friday’s NHL GM call: Like every hockey fan on the planet, the league’s general managers have been waiting for some definitive details about the 2020–21 NHL season. However, there are still so many unknowns (border, recent COVID spikes across North America) that any certainties are way too premature. The league has re-iterated […]
Still no certainties on 2020–21 NHL season after GM call – Sportsnet.ca — PressNewsAgency
LOS ANGELES DODGERS (43-17, 10-4) vs. Tampa Bay Rays (40-20, 10-6)
RHP Walker Buehler (1-0, 1.89) vs. RHP Charlie Morton (3-0, 0.59)
Friday, October 23, 2020 | 7:08 p.m. CT | Globe Life Field | Arlington, TX
World Series – Game 3
TV: FOX | Radio: AM 570 (Eng.); 1020 AM (Span.), ESPN Radio, AM 1540 (Kor.)
EVEN STEVEN: The Dodgers crawled back from a 5-0 deficit to
get within two runs before eventually falling to the Rays, 6-4, on
Wednesday night. The Dodgers got off to a slow start as Tampa
scored five runs in the first four frames off five different pitchers, but
the Dodgers kept the pressure, slugging three homers and getting the
tying run to the plate in bottom of the eighth inning. Los Angeles
was outlasted and lost their first game since last Thursday to even
the World Series, 1-1. The Dodgers offense scored two runs with two
outs on Wednesday night and have scored 43 runs with two outs this
postseason, which ranks fourth all-time in the Wild Card Era history.
TEAMS – MOST RUNS WITH TWO OUTS (Since 1994)
2004 Boston Red Sox- 46
2018 Boston Red Sox – 45
2002 San Francisco Giants- 45
2020 Los Angeles Dodgers– 43
Will Smith clubbed his second homer of the postseason, a
solo homer in the seventh inning to cut the deficit to 6-3. At
25.207, he is the youngest catcher to hit a homer in the
World Series since Salvador Perez (24.164) clubbed a
World Series homer on October 21, 2014.
The Dodgers are in their 21st World Series in franchise
history and the 12th Fall Classic appearance since moving
to Los Angeles in 1958. They now have the second most
WS appearances in MLB history, trailing only the New
York Yankees (40).
GOLDEN CANDIDATES: Cody Bellinger (CF) and Mookie
Betts (RF) were named Rawlings Gold Glove finalists for their
respective positions on Thursday afternoon. Bellinger, who won the
NL Gold Glove in RF last season, played 39 games in center field
and finished second in the NL with six defensive runs saved in CF
and his six outs above average were tied for first in the NL with Trent
Grisham. Betts, who has won four consecutive Gold Gloves in the
AL, is up for his first award in the NL after leading the Majors with
11 defensive runs by a right fielder, which were 10 more than any
other candidate in the NL. He also finished with a Major League best
six outs above replacement by MLB right fielders.
M-V-SEAGS: Corey Seager was named the 2020 NLCS MVP on
Sunday night after going 9-for-29 with five homers and 11 RBI.
Seager set NLCS records in both homers and RBI and his seven
extra-base hits are tied with Javy Lopez (1996) for the all-time NLCS
record. The native of North Carolina’s 26 total bases are the second
most all-time in an NLCS and second most to Albert Pujols, who had
28 in 2004 vs. Houston.
Seager clubbed his seventh homer of the postseason
Wednesday night, a solo homer off Peter Fairbanks. His
seventh homer of the postseason is tied with Randy
Arozarena for most in the 2020 postseason and are tied for
third all-time in postseason history. Only three players have
had more homers in one postseason, Nelson Cruz (8, 2011),
Carlos Beltran (8, 2002) and Barry Bonds (8, 2002).
Seager finished one home run shy from tying the record for
home runs in any Postseason series, which is held by the
Rangers’ Nelson Cruz (6 in the 2011 ALCS vs. Detroit). He
is one of eight players all-time to reach at least five homers
and 11 RBI in a single Postseason. His six home runs and
15 RBI this postseason are both Dodger records for homers
and RBI in a single Postseason.
In Game 3 of the NLCS, Seager became the second player
in Postseason history to collect an RBI in five consecutive
at-bats (last two of Game 2 and first three of Game 3),
joining Carlos Beltran (2004). Last week, it was announced
that Seager was one of seven National League finalists for
the Hank Aaron Award, given to the most outstanding
regular season offensive performer in each league.
POSTSEASON POWER: Chris Taylor, Corey Seager and Will
Smith each homered on Wednesday night and the Dodgers are now
second in the Majors in postseason homers with 23, trailing the Rays
(28). Seager became the fourth Dodger player to reach the doubledigit mark in postseason history and inched his way closer to Hall of
Famer Duke Snider’s record for Dodger Postseason home runs. The
list: Snider (11), Steve Garvey (10), Justin Turner (10), Corey
Seager (10), Max Muncy (8), Joc Pederson (8), Kiké Hernández
(8), Cody Bellinger (8) and Adrían González (7).
POSTSEASON BUEHLER: Dodger right-hander Walker
Buehler will get the start in Game 3 of the World Series, his second
Game 3 start of the World Series after firing 7.0 scoreless innings,
allowing two hits with 10 strikeouts in a no decision October 26,
2018 vs. BOS. In his last postseason start, Buehler tossed 6.0 innings,
scattering seven hits without allowing a run and striking out six
against the Braves. Tonight, will be Buehler’s 11th career postseason
start and he is 2-1 with a 2.44 ERA (15 ER/55.1 IP) and 73 strikeouts
against 21 walks.
Buehler has struck out at least six batters in each of his
previous 10 postseason starts and failed to record 7+
strikeout game for the first time in his career in his last
outing against the Braves. It snapped his streak and he is
now tied with Randy Johnson, who had nine straight starts
of seven or more strikeouts from Oct. 5, 1997-Nov. 3, 2001.
The Kentucky native has 73 strikeouts in 55.1 career
postseason innings. His 11.87 strikeouts per nine innings,
ranks fifth all-time (MIN 40.0 IP), trailing only Mariano
Rivera (13.50), Wade Davis (12.83), Kenley Jansen (12.51)
and Brad Lidge (12.31).
With two trips to the injured list due to a blister on his right
hand, Buehler went 1-0 with a 3.44 ERA (14 ER/36.2 IP)
and 42 strikeouts in eight starts. He limited the opposition
to a .178 average and registered a 0.95 WHIP.
NO MAN LIKE MOOK: After signing a 12-year contract
extension that will keep him in Dodger blue through 2032 prior to
Opening Day, Mookie Betts made a bid to join Frank Robinson as
the only player to win the MVP award in both leagues. Betts ranked
among the NL leaders in hits (64, T-10th), runs (47, 4th), batting
average (.292, 16th), OBP (.366, 17th), SLG (.562, 13th), steals (10,
T-5th) and homers (16, T-3rd). Betts went 18-for-41 (.439) with
runners in scoring position, the third best mark in the Majors,
and was at his best late in games, posting a .343 (24-for70)/.370/.643 slashline from the seventh inning and later.
In Game 1 of the World Series, Betts went 2-for-4 with a
homer, two runs scored and two stolen bases and became
the first player in MLB history with two runs, two stolen
bases and a homer in a World Series game.
Betts, 28, has hit safely in 11 of 14 playoff games this year,
going 16-for-52 (.308) with six doubles, one homer and six
RBI. 15 of his 36 playoff hits have gone for extra-bases (13
doubles, two homers). The Dodgers are 10-1 in the
postseason when he records at least one hit.
On Aug. 13, he homered three times against the Padres,
joining Hall-of-Famer Johnny Mize and Sammy Sosa as the
only players in MLB history with six career three-homer
games. Betts also collected career-hit No. 1,000 on Aug. 27
vs. San Francisco.
WHERE THERE’S A WILL: Dodger catcher Will Smith had a
game for the ages in Game 3 of the NLDS vs. San Diego, going 5-
for-6 with two doubles and three RBI. Smith became the first Dodger
to collect five hits in a playoff game and was also the youngest player
and first catcher in Postseason history with a five-hit contest (25
years, 194 days). In 14 games this Postseason, Smith is hitting .222
(12-for-56) with two homers, three doubles, 13 RBI and six runs.
MATCHUP vs. RAYS
Regular Season All-Time vs. Rays: LA leads series, 10-7
2019: Teams Split Series, 2-2 (1-1 at Dodger Stadium)
2020 Postseason: Series Tied, 1-1
Oct. 20 vs. TB at Globe Life Field: W, 8-3 W: Kershaw L: Glasnow
Oct. 21 vs. TB at Globe Life Field: L, 4-6 W: Anderson L: Gonsolin S: Castillo
OCTOBER RED: Dodger third baseman Justin Turner went 1-
for-4 with a double and extended his postseason on-base streak to 10
games on Wednesday. During his on-base streak, he is batting .270
(10-for-37) with four doubles, one homer and two RBI, while
reaching base 17 of his 44 plate appearances. The infielder has 73
postseason hits, which is a Dodger postseason record. The 2017 AllStar set the record in Game 3 of the NLDS vs. San Diego, surpassing
Steve Garvey (63). Turner also holds the club record for Postseason
RBI with 39 and playoff doubles with 17. In 68 career postseason
games (all with L.A.), Turner has hit .291 (73-for-251) with 10
homers, 17 doubles and an .880 OPS.
The infielder ended the season having reached base safely
in 31 consecutive games with a plate appearance, doing so
from Aug. 4-Sept. 27, the longest on-base streak of his
career (previous high: 28, 2011). It marked the second
longest streak in the Majors this year behind only Freddie
Freeman’s 33-game on-base streak from Aug. 11-Sept. 18.
Among players with 150 or more AB, Turner ranked
among the NL leaders in average (.307, 13th) and OBP
(.400, T-9th). He reached 1,000 career hits with a secondinning double on August 11 against the Padres.
Turner was the Dodgers’ nominee for the Roberto Clemente
Award for the third time in four years (also: 2017, ’18) and
won his third-career Roy Campanella Award as the most
inspirational Dodger.
EIGHT’S NOT ENOUGH: The Dodgers went 43-17 in the 60-
game season to win their record eighth straight NL West title with
the best record in the Majors. The club’s .717 winning percentage
was the best in franchise history and marked the seventh time in club
history that the Dodgers posted the Majors’ best mark (last: 2017).
The Dodgers won a division title for the eighth straight year,
something only two other franchises have accomplished:
MLB All-Time – Most Consecutive Division Titles
Braves, 1991-2005 14
Yankees, 1998-2006 9
Dodgers, 2013-2020 8 (active streak)
Source: Stats, LLC
The Dodgers reached the World Series in each of their six
previous seasons with the best record in the Majors:
Dodgers Finishing w/MLB’s Best Record, All-time
1949 Brooklyn Dodgers (tied) 97-57 (.630) Lost WS (4-1 NYY)
1952 Brooklyn Dodgers 96-57 (.627) Lost WS (4-3 NYY)
1953 Brooklyn Dodgers 105-49 (.682) Lost WS (4-2 NYY)
1955 Brooklyn Dodgers 98-55 (.641) Won WS (4-3 vs NYY)
1974 Los Angeles Dodgers 102-60 (.630) Lost WS (4-1 Oak)
2017 Los Angeles Dodgers 104-58 (.642) Lost WS (4-3 Hou)
2020 Los Angeles Dodgers 43-17 (.717) ???
THE LONG BALL: Los Angeles led the Majors with 118 home
runs in 60 games, an average of 1.97 per game. The 1.97 homers per
game represent the top mark in MLB history, topping the 2019
Minnesota Twins (1.90). The Dodgers’ previous high came last year
when the club averaged 1.72 home runs per game.
The Dodgers blasted 57 home runs in 28 August games,
setting a National League record for most home runs in a
calendar month. The mark was previously held by the
Atlanta Braves, who hit 56 in June 2019.
AJ Pollock and Mookie Betts tied for the team lead and for
third in the National League with 16 homers. Los Angeles
homered in 49 of its 60 games and went 39-10 when hitting
at least one homer. The Dodgers were 28-8 when hitting
two or more home runs in a game.
The Dodgers had five players reach double digit home runs
in the 60-game season, with Pollock, Betts, Corey Seager
(15, T-9th NL), Cody Bellinger (12, T-18th NL) and Max
Muncy (12, T-18th NL) turning the trick. The five players
with 10+ home runs tied for the MLB lead with the Braves,
White Sox and Phillies.
I’M ABOUT TO RUN: The Dodgers led the Majors with a +136
run differential, 52 better than the next best team (Padres +84). Even
with the shortened 60-game season, the 2020 Dodgers’ +136 run
differential represents the ninth best mark in Los Angeles history.
Los Angeles led MLB with 349 runs scored, and ranked
second with 213 runs allowed (Indians, 1st, 209).
The Dodgers’ 5.82 runs per game were the most
in franchise history and ranked as the third most in NL
history behind only the 1996 & 2000 Colorado Rockies.
Los Angeles hitters batted .291 combined with runners in
scoring position (137-for-470), the second-bast mark in the
Majors behind the Padres (.310).
Los Angeles was not shut out all season, the only team in
the Majors to avoid that distinction. The Dodgers scored
five or more runs in 39 of their 60 games, posting a 36-3
record in those contests. The Dodgers scored 122 runs in
the seventh inning or later, the second most in the Majors
(Padres, 124), which helped L.A. register 19 comeback
wins. The club outscored the opposition 122-66 from the
seventh inning on.
SERIES BUSINESS: The Dodgers lost just one series all year – at
home vs. Colorado Sept. 4-6 – and finished the season with a 15-1-4
series record, including six series sweeps. Los Angeles opened the
season by going unbeaten its first 13 series, which is the fifth best
season-opening run in the divisional era (since 1969). The 1977
Dodgers hold the club mark with 14.
Los Angeles went unbeaten in its 10 road series, posting a
9-0-1 series record.
The Dodgers won the season series against every club they
played this year. According to the Elias Sports Bureau, the
Dodgers became just the 4th team in the World Series era
(since 1903) to win at least 60% of their decisions against
every team they faced in a season and the first to do so in
101 years.
START ME UP: The Dodgers led the Majors in team ERA
(3.02), opponents’ batting average (.213) and WHIP (1.06), and
allowed just 1.10 home runs per 9.0 innings – the best mark in the
National League and second best in the Majors behind the Twins
(1.09). The Dodgers walked just 2.42 per 9.0 innings (1st, MLB) and
posted the best strikeout-to-walk ratio (3.96) in the NL.
Los Angeles starters led the NL with a 3.29 combined ERA
(101 ER/276.1 IP), limited opponents to a .219 batting
average (2nd, MLB) and posted an MLB-best 1.07 WHIP.
Clayton Kershaw led the Dodgers in wins (6), innings
(58.1) and strikeouts (62) in his 13th MLB season, going 6-
2 with a 2.16 ERA in 10 starts. Kershaw ranked among the
NL leaders (min. 55 IP) in wins (T-4th), ERA (5th),
opponents’ batting average (.194, 5th) and WHIP (0.84, 2nd).
On Sept. 3, Kershaw reached 2,500 strikeouts by fanning
Arizona’s Nick Ahmed, becoming the third-youngest
pitcher in MLB history to reach the mark at 32 years, 168
days, behind only Nolan Ryan (31 years, 101 days) and
Walter Johnson (31 years, 197 days). He ended the season
ranked 36th on the all-time strikeout list, nine behind
Bartolo Colon.
Among rookies with 40.0 or more innings
pitched, Tony Gonsolin (2.31) and Dustin May (2.57)
ranked first and second, respectively, in ERA.
In nine games (eight starts), Gonsolin limited opponents to
a .189 batting average, allowed just two home runs, walked
seven, struck out 46 in 46.2 innings and posted a 0.84
WHIP – the fourth best mark in the Majors among pitchers
with 40.0 or more innings.
May became the first Dodger rookie to start on Opening
Day since Fernando Valenzuela replaced an injured Jerry
Reuss in 1981 and allowed just one run in 4.1 innings in a
no-decision on July 23 against the Giants. In 12 games (10
starts), he went 3-1 and ranked among the NL leaders (min.
50.0 IP) in ERA (2.57, 8th), opponents’ batting
average (.220, T-13th) and WHIP (1.09, T-12th).
OH WHAT A RELIEF: Dodger relievers posted a 2.74 ERA, the
best mark in the NL and the second best in the Majors behind only
the Athletics (2.72). The Los Angeles bullpen held opponents to a
.207 average (1st, MLB) and posted a 1.04 WHIP, the best mark in
the big leagues. Dodger relievers issued just 2.57 walks per 9.0
innings and allowed only 0.82 HR/9.0 innings, leading the Majors in
both categories.
Four Los Angeles relievers placed among the NL’s top 20
qualifying relievers in ERA: Adam Kolarek (0.95,
3rd), Victor González (1.40, 4th), Dylan Floro (2.59, 16th)
and Jake McGee (2.66, T-19th).
The Dodgers had five relievers with a WHIP of 1.00 or
lower: Gonzalez (0.72, 4th NL), Kolarek (0.79, 6th NL),
McGee (0.84, 8th NL), Brusdar Graterol (0.86, T-9th NL)
and Pedro Báez (1.00, T-24th NL).
Dodger closer Kenley Jansen was selected as the National
League’s Reliever of the Month for July/August, going 1-0
with nine saves in 10 opportunities and posting a 1.23 ERA
(2 ER/14.2 IP). It was Jansen’s second career monthly
award (also: June 2017).
Game 3 Starter – RHP Walker Buehler: 1-0, 1.89 ERA in 4 GS
2020 Postseason:
Fired 6.0 scoreless innings in his tenth postseason start against the Braves in Game 6 of the
NLCS…despite giving up seven hits, the Kentucky native struck out six and did not issue a walk as he earned his first win of the 2020 postseason…also started Game 1, delivering 5.0 solid frames, allowing just one run on three hits while striking out seven and issuing five walks on 100 pitches Tossed 4.0 innings on one-run ball in Game 1 of the Division Series vs. the Padres, allowing
two hits and four walks while striking out eight…also started Game 1 of the Wild Card Series against the Brewers, giving up two earned runs on three hits as he delivered 4.0 frames, striking
out eight and walking two while not factoring in the decision as Los Angeles routed Milwaukee, 4-2 2020
Regular Season:
Finished the season going 1-0 with a 3.44 ERA (14 ER/36.2 IP) over eight starts, limiting opponents to a .178 average (24-for-135)
Struck out 42 batters and walked just eleven during his eight appearances…posted a 0.95 WHIP and 10.31 strikeout-per-nine innings mark
Has pitched especially well at Dodger Stadium, keeping opponents to a .114/.195/.129 slashline over four games…struck out 29 batters and walked just six in those appearances
His best outing of the year occurred at Dodger Stadium against Colorado on August 21, where he tossed 6.0 innings of one-run ball, collecting a season-high 11 strikeouts while
giving up only four hits…the Dodgers eventually won that matchup 5-1
Made two trips to the Injured List, both for a blister on his right hand, from Aug. 23 to Sept. 2 and again from Sept. 9 to Sept. 24….the Boys in Blue went 12-7 over that 19 game
span
Career vs. Tampa Bay:
Will face the Rays for the first time in his career as he starts Game 3 of the Fall Classic
Career Postseason:
Has gone 2-1 with a 2.44 ERA (15 ER/55.1 IP) in ten postseason starts, striking out 73 batters against 21 walks and limiting opposition to a .182 batting average…also owns a 1.03 WHIP and four quality starts
Fanned at least seven batters in his first nine postseason starts…according to Elias, the only other pitcher who has ever had a postseason streak that long is Randy Johnson, who
produced nine straight postseason starts of seven or more strikeouts from Oct. 1997 – Nov. 3, 2001
His sole World Series appearance came against Boston in Game 3 back in 2018…fired 7.0 scoreless innings, allowing just two hits as he struck out seven without issuing a walk…did
not factor in the decision as the Dodgers eventually won that marathon game, 3-2, in the 18th inning
Started twice against Atlanta in the Championship Series, giving up just one earned run over 11.0 innings to go 1-0…allowed ten hits and five walks but struck out 13 batters…the
Dodgers went 1-1 during Buehler’s outings
In Division Series matchups, including his appearance against San Diego, the righty owns a 1-0 record over four starts, producing a 2.91 ERA (7 ER/21.2 IP) with 30 strikeouts and a .123 (9-for-73) opponent batting average
Pitched against the Milwaukee in Game 1 of the Wild Card Series, throwing 4.0 innings as he gave up two runs on three hits over 73 pitches…did not factor in the decision as the Dodgers won the matchup, 4-2.
The 116th
World Series
Los Angeles Dodgers vs. Tampa Bay Rays
Friday, October 22, 2020
World Series 3 Notes
Globe Life Field, Arlington, Texas
2020 WORLD SERIES SCHEDULE
GAME DAY/DATE SITE FIRST PITCH (ET/SITE) TV/RADIO
3 Friday, Oct. 23rd Globe Life Field 8:08 p.m. / 7:08 p.m. FOX/ESPN Radio
4 Saturday, Oct. 24th Globe Life Field 8:08 p.m. / 7:08 p.m. FOX/ESPN Radio
5 Sunday, Oct. 25th Globe Life Field 8:08 p.m. / 7:08 p.m. FOX/ESPN Radio
Monday, Oct. 26th OFF DAY
6* Tuesday, . Oct. 27th Globe Life Field 8:08 p.m. / 7:08 p.m. FOX/ESPN Radio
7* Wednesday, .Oct. 28th Globe Life Field 8:09 p.m. / 7:09 p.m. FOX/ESPN Radio
*If Necessary
2020 WORLD SERIES PROBABLE PITCHERS (Regular Season/Postseason)
Game 3 at Arlington: Walker Buehler (1-0, 3.44, 42 SO / 1-0, 1.89, 29 SO) vs. Charlie Morton (2-2, 4.74, 42 SO / 3-0, 0.57, 17 SO)
Game 4 at Arlington: Julio Urías (3-0, 3.27, 45 SO / 4-0, 0.56, 16 SO) vs. TBD
Game 5 at Arlington: TBD vs. TBD
116th WORLD SERIES
• 2020 marks the 116th renewal of the World Series
featuring the champions of the American League against
the champions of the National League. The Fall Classic
was first played in 1903, and has taken place every year
since 1904, when the National League champion New
York Giants and their manager John McGraw refused to
play the AL champs, the Boston Red Sox, and in 1994,
when the season ended on August 11th due to the players’
strike.
PIVOTAL GAME THREE
• Of the previous 59 times that a World Series has been
tied, 1-1, the team winning Game Three has gone on to
win the Commissioner’s Trophy on 38 occasions (64.4%).
That has been the case in five of the last eight (except
St. Louis in 2013, Kansas City in 2014 and Cleveland
in 2016), and 12 of the last 16 instances, with the other
exception being 2003, when the Yankees won Game 3 to
take a 2-1 lead, but lost the next three contests. Prior to
that, it had not occurred since 1979, when Baltimore took
a 2-1 lead against Pittsburgh before losing the series in
seven.
DODGERS AT 1-1
• This marks the 13th time since 1900 that the Dodgers
have been tied 1-1 in a best-of-seven Postseason series,
previously doing so in the 2018 NLCS (Milwaukee); the
2017 World Series (Houston); the 2016 NLCS (CHI
Cubs); the 2009 NLCS (Philadelphia); the 1988 NLCS
(NY Mets); the 1977 World Series (NY Yankees); the
1974 World Series (Oakland); the 1959 World Series (CHI
White Sox); the 1952 World Series (NY Yankees); the
1949 World Series (NY Yankees); the 1941 World Series
(NY Yankees); and the 1920 World Series (Cleveland).
• Of the previous 12 occurrences, the Dodgers only went
on to win the 2018 NLCS, the 1988 NLCS and the 1959
World Series.
RAYS AT 1-1
• This marks the third time in franchise history that the
Rays have been tied 1-1 in a best-of-seven Postseason
series. Both previous occurrences came during Tampa
Bay’s 2008 playoff run, with them defeating Boston in the
ALCS before falling to Philadelphia in the Fall Classic.
GAME 2 RESULTS
• The Rays improved to 7-4 in Game Two of a Postseason
series, and are now 2-0 in Game Two of the Fall Classic.
Tampa Bay is now a perfect 4-0 this Postseason in Game
Two. • The Dodgers dropped to 28-23 in Game Two of a
Postseason series, and are now 10-11 in Game Two of
the Fall Classic. Los Angeles is now 2-2 this Postseason
in Game Two.
KEYSTONE POWER
• Second baseman Brandon Lowe connected for a pair of
home runs in Game Two. He became the first player in
franchise history to club multiple homers in a Fall Classic
game. It marked the seventh such game by a Ray in
Postseason history, most recently accomplished by his
teammate Manuel Margot in Game Six of the ALCS
against the Astros.
• In addition, it marked the 55th multi-homer game in World
Series history, and the first since Steve Pearce in Game
Five of the 2018 Fall Classic.
• Lowe became the sixth second baseman (seventh time)
in World Series history to record a multi-homer game,
joining Chase Utley (2009 G1 and G5), Jeff Kent (2002
G5), Davey Lopes (1978 G1), Charlie Neal (1959 G2) and Tony Lazzeri (1932 G4).
2020 WS RESULTS
DATE RESULT WINNING PITCHER LOSING PITCHER SAVE ATTENDANCE
Tuesday, October 20th LAD 8-3 Clayton Kershaw Tyler Glasnow — 11,388
Wednesday, October 21st TB 6-4 Nick Anderson Tony Gonsolin Diego Castillo –11,472
FIVE-INNING ROAD BLOCK
• Following Blake Snell’s 4.2 inning-start, the Rays
became the sixth team in World Series history to have
four consecutive starters not reach 5.0 innings (Tyler
Glasnow, 2020 G2; Scott Kazmir, 2008 G5; and Andy
Sonnanstine, 2008 G4).
• According to the Elias Sports Bureau, the Rays became
the first AL Club to do so, as it was previously accomplished
by the Dodgers (5G, 2017-18); the Cardinals (5, 1987-
2004); the Giants (4, 1989); the Padres (4, 1984) and the
Dodgers (7, 1947).
SNELLZILLA
• Blake Snell tossed 4.2 innings of two-run ball in the no decision with nine strikeouts, four walks and two hits
allowed. Snell had a no-hitter through 4.2 innings before
giving up a two-run homer to Chris Taylor.
• With nine punchouts, Snell surpassed Glasnow (8) for the
franchise record in a World Series game. He matched
his personal Postseason record, which he set in Game
One of this year’s Wild Card round against the Blue Jays.
Glasnow’s 10-strikeout performance in Game Two of this
year’s ALDS against the Yankees paces the franchise’s
Postseason mark.
• Snell became the first pitcher in World Series history
to throw fewer than 5.0 innings with nine strikeouts. It
marked the 10th such outing in Postseason history overall,
and the first since Washington’s Patrick Corbin last year
in Game Four of the NLCS against the Cardinals.
• Snell became the third pitcher in World Series history to
tally at least two strikeouts in four consecutive innings,
joining Hall of Famers Sandy Koufax and Bob Gibson.
TWO-OUT PROWESS
• In Game 3, the Dodgers scored two runs with
two outs, and have now amassed 43 two-out RBI this
Postseason. The next closest this Postseason is Houston
and Tampa Bay at 22.
• Since 1999, the Dodgers’ 43 two-out RBI rank fourth in
a single Postseason, behind only Boston (46) in 2004,
Boston (45) in 2018 and San Francisco (45) in 2002.
SEAGER STAYS HOT
• Corey Seager launched his seventh home run of the 2020
Postseason in Wednesday’s losing effort, extending his
franchise record for a single Postseason.
• Seager became the 10th player in MLB Postseason
history to club seven-or-more homers in a single playoff
run, and joined Tampa Bay’s Randy Arozarena (7) this
year. Nelson Cruz (2011), Carlos Beltrán (2004) and
Barry Bonds (8) are the only players in history with eight
homers in a single Postseason.
• Seager became the first shortstop in history to hit seven
homers in a single Postseason.
• 2020 is the first Postseason in history to feature a pair
of hitters club at least seven round-trippers (Arozarena/
Seager).
CREAM OF THE CROP
• This year’s Fall Classic features Clubs with the best
overall record from each league for the first time since
the Cardinals and Red Sox in 2013. Overall, it marks the
13th such matchup since 1969.
Year AL Team Record NL Team Record
2020 Tampa Bay 40-20 LA Dodgers 43-17
2013 Boston 97-65 St. Louis 97-65
1999 NY Yankees 98-64 Atlanta 103-59
1995 Cleveland 100-44 Atlanta 90-54
1992 Toronto 96-66 Atlanta 98-64
1986 Boston 108-54 NY Mets 108-54
1982 Milwaukee 95-67 St. Louis 92-70
1979 Baltimore 102-57 Pittsburgh 98-64
1978 NY Yankees 100-63 LA Dodgers 95-67
1976 NY Yankees 97-62 Cincinnati 102-60
1971 Baltimore 101-57 Pittsburgh 97-65
1970 Baltimore 108-54 Cincinnati 102-60
1969 Baltimore 109-53 NY Mets 100-62
• Should the Dodgers claim this year’s Commissioner’s
Trophy, they would become just the seventh World Series
winner in the Wild Card Era to also have posted the best
regular season record in the Majors. This was previously
accomplished by the 2018 Red Sox; the 2016 Cubs; the
2013 Red Sox; the 2009 Yankees; the 2007 Red Sox;
and the 1998 Yankees.
THE MANAGERS
Kevin Cash is in his sixth full season with the Rays, and is
making his first appearance in the Fall Classic.
• Cash has guided the Rays to a 454-416 (.522) record
during his six years at the helm.
• Cash became the fifth manager in Rays history and is
already the second-longest tenured behind only Joe
Maddon (2006-14).
• Across Baseball, is the third-longest tenured manager
with his current team behind Oakland’s Bob Melvin (9)
and Cleveland’s Terry Francona (8).
• Finished third in 2018 and 2019 AL Manager of the Year
voting. Was behind Rocco Baldelli (MIN) and Aaron
Boone (NYY) in 2019, and Bob Melvin (OAK) and Alex
Cora (BOS) in 2018.
• At age-41 during the 2019 season, became the youngest
AL East manger to lead his team to the Postseason
since 1995, when Buck Showalter of the Yankees (age
39) and Kevin Kennedy of the Red Sox (age 41) both
accomplished the feat.
• Played eight seasons at the Major League level across
stints with the Blue Jays (2002-04), Rays (2005), Red
Sox (2007-08), Yankees (2009), Astros (2010) and Red
Sox (2010).
Dave Roberts is in his fifth season as manager of the
Dodgers, and has made an appearance in each Postseason
as skipper.
• Roberts piloted the Dodgers to a 436-273 (.615) record
across his five seasons at the helm.
• Prior to being named manager of the Club in 2016,
Roberts lost his lone game as interim manager of the San
Diego Padres in 2015.
• Is the first manager in Baseball history to guide the
Dodgers to the Postseason in each of his first five
seasons with the Club.
• Roberts’ Dodgers won a franchise-record 106 game
during the 2019 season.
• In his first season as manager in 2016, was named
NL Manager of the Year, joining Hall of Famer Tommy
Lasorda (1983, 88) as the only managers in Club history
to win the award since its inception in 1983.
• Across 10 Major League seasons, played for the Indians
(1999-2001), Dodgers (2002-04), Red Sox (2004),
Padres (2005-06) and Giants (2007-08).
Game 3 Notes – Friday, October 23, 2020
GAME 3 STARTERS
BUEHLER: Across 10 career Postseason appearances (al
starts), is 2-1 with a 2.44 ERA. Has logged 73 strikeouts, 21
walks and just 36 hits over 55.1 innings pitched.
• Started Game Three of the 2018 Fall Classic against the
Red Sox in his lone World Series appearance. Tossed
7.0-shutout innings with seven strikeouts while not
permitting a walk and only surrendering two hits. • Has registered at least seven strikeouts in each of his 10
Postseason starts. According to the Elias Sports Bureau,
Hall of Famer Randy Johnson is the only other player in
history to post a longer streak, delivering nine from 1997-2001
• Has made four starts this Postseason, earning the win in
his lone decision against the Braves in Game Six of the
NLCS. Has recorded a 1.89 ERA with a 29:11 strikeoutto-walk ratio. • Buehler started Game One of the NL Wild Card vs.
Milwaukee (4-2 win); Game One of the NLDS vs. San
Diego (5-1 win); Game One of the NLCS vs. Atlanta (1-5
loss); and Game Six of the NLCS vs. Atlanta (3-1 win). • During the regular season, went 1-0 with 42 punchouts,
11 walks, 24 hits and a 3.44 ERA over eight starts and
36.2 innings of work. • Has never pitched against the Rays. • Only three players currently on the Rays’ World Series
roster have ever recorded an at-bat against Buehler.
Hunter Renfroe is 1-for-5 (.200); Manuel Margot is 1-for4 (.250) with a home run and RBI; and Mike Zunino is 0-for-2 (.000).
MORTON: Across 12 career Postseason appearances,
including 11 starts, has logged a 7-2 record with 61 strikeouts,
21 walks and a 2.84 ERA over 57.0 innings pitched.
• Has made four starts during the 2020 Postseason, going
2-2 with a 3.20 ERA and a 19:10 strikeout-to-walk ratio
across 19.2 innings of work. Has surrendered four home
runs and 16 hits. • Appeared in two previous Fall Classic games during the
2017 World Series as a member of the Houston Astros.
Allowed just two runs across 10.1 innings while tallying
11 strikeouts and just one free pass. • Morton started Game Three of the ALDS at NY Yankees
(8-4 win); Game Two of the ALDS vs. Houston (4-2 win);
and Game Seven of the ALCS vs. Houston (4-2 win). • With his win in Game Seven of the ALCS, improved to
3-0 all-time in deciding Postseason games. His three
victories are tied for third most in MLB history, trailing only
Andy Pettitte (6) and Dave Stewart (4). • During the regular season, Morton registered a 2-2 record
with 42 strikeouts, 10 walks, 43 hits and a 4.74 ERA over
nine starts and 38.0 innings. • Has made two career starts against the Dodgers, losing
his lone decision with a 6.55 ERA and 14 strikeouts over
a pair of starts and 11.0 innings. • Mookie Betts has logged the most career at-bats against
Morton, hitting 6-for-20 (.300) with two doubles. AJ
Pollock is 0-for-9 (.000) with an RBI; Justin Turner is
2-for-5 (.400) with two RBI; and Joc Pederson is 0-for-2
(.000).
CLOSE THE ROOF
• Tonight’s World Series contest will have the roof closed.
All previous 12 Postseason games at Globe Life Fied this
year have had the roof open, and 15 of the last 16 games
overall in Arlington have featured the roof open. • During the 2020 regular season, the roof was open on
six occasions, resulting in 11.83 runs per game. In 24
games with the roof closed, 8.21 runs per game were
averaged (courtesy of Rangers PR).
FAMILIAR TERRITORY
• The Los Angeles Dodgers secured their 21st NL Pennant
in franchise history, the most of any NL Club and secondmost all-time behind the Yankees (40).
• The Dodgers became just the second team since 1969
to represent the NL in the World Series three times
across four Postseasons (2017-18, 2020), joining the
Atlanta Braves, who earned four NL Pennants across five
Postseasons from 1991-96 (excluding 1993).
RELATIVE NEWCOMERS
• The Tampa Bay Rays are appearing in just their second
World Series in franchise history. In their lone appearance
in 2008, the Rays were defeated by the Phillies in five
games.
COMING IN HOT
• The Dodgers won three consecutive games while facing
elimination to win the NLCS, marking the second time
that the Clubs has accomplished the feat during a
Postseason series. During the 1981 NLDS against the
Houston Astros, the Dodgers won three straight after
falling behind two game-to-none in the best-of-five series.
• The Dodgers became the eighth team in Postseason
history to accomplish the feat in a best-of-seven LCS
series, joining the 2012 Giants; the 2007 Red Sox; the
2004 Red Sox (4); the 2003 Marlins; the 1996 Braves;
the 1986 Red Sox; and the 1985 Royals.
TAKING THE LONG ROUTE
• This year’s ALCS marked just the second in Major League
history to feature a decisive Game 7 after one Club held a
3-0 series lead. The 2004 ALCS was the only other such
occurrence, which saw the Boston Red Sox complete the
series comeback against the New York Yankees en route
to their World Series crown.
• Following a sweep of the Blue Jays, the Rays required five
games to defeat the Yankees in the ALDS and all seven
games against the Astros to advance to the Fall Classic.
The Rays became the ninth Club in Postseason history to
play a “winner-take-all” game in both the Division Series
and Championship Series, joining the 2017 Yankees; the
2012 Giants; the 2012 Cardinals; the 2004 Astros; the
2003 Cubs; the 2003 Red Sox; the 1981 Dodgers; and
the 1981 Expos.
TITLE TOWN(S) USA
• Both cities of Los Angeles and Tampa Bay enter the 2020
Fall Classic having already secured a championship
in one of the other ‘Big Four’ professional sports. The
Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Miami Heat to claim
the NBA’s Larry O’Brien Trophy, while the Tampa Bay
Lightning defeated the Dallas Stars to garner the Stanley
Cup.
• Should the Dodgers emerge victorious from this year’s
Fall Classic, it would mark the first time since 1988
that Los Angeles enjoyed a pair of champions in the
same year. The City of LA became the first and still is
only city to have the NBA champion and World Series
champion in the same year. It is worth noting that in
2002, the Anaheim Angels and Lakers also both won
their respective championships.
Game 3 Notes – Friday, Oct. 23, 2020
• Tampa Bay is vying to become just the third city in history
to have a World Series champion and Stanley Cup
champion in the same year. The feat was accomplished
by New York twice – first in 1928 with the New York
Yankees and New York Rangers, and again in 1933 with
the New York Giants and New York Rangers.
COAST TO COAST
• For the fifth time since Major League Baseball began the
six-division format in 1994, the Fall Classic is featuring
teams from the NL West and the AL East.
• The Red Sox defeated the Dodgers in 2018; the Red
Sox defeated the Rockies in 2007; the Diamondbacks
defeated the Yankees in 2001; and the Yankees defeated
the Padres in 1998.
BEEN HERE BEFORE
Of the 56 players that were on the Dodgers and Rays LCS
rosters, 18 have previous World Series experience, including
17 from the Dodgers.
• Los Angeles: Pedro Báez (2018 Dodgers), Austin Barnes
(2017-18 Dodgers), Cody Bellinger (2017-18 Dodgers),
Mookie Betts (2018 Red Sox), Walker Buehler (2018
Dodgers), Dylan Floro (2018 Dodgers), Kiké Hernández
(2017-18 Dodgers), Kenley Jansen (2017-18 Dodgers),
Joe Kelly (2013 Cardinals, 2018 Red Sox), Clayton
Kershaw (2017-18 Dodgers), Max Muncy (2018 Dodgers),
Joc Pederson (2017-18 Dodgers), Corey Seager (2017
Dodgers), Chris Taylor (2017-18 Dodgers), Justin Turner
(2017-18 Dodgers), Julio Urías (2018 Dodgers), Alex
Wood (2017-18 Dodgers)
• Tampa Bay: Charlie Morton (2017 Astros)
ALL AROUND THE WORLD
• According to each Club’s WS rosters, the teams combine
for 15 foreign-born players. The 15 players hail from the
Dominican Republic (four – Willy Adames, Pedro Báez,
Diego Castillo, Manuel Margot); Puerto Rico (three – Kiké
Hernández, Michael Perez, Edwin Ríos); Cuba (two –
Randy Arozarena, Yandy Díaz); Mexico (two – Victor
González, Julio Urías); Curaçao (one – Kenley Jansen);
Japan (one – Yoshitomo Tsutsugo); South Korea (one – JiMan Choi); and Venezuela (one – Brusdar Graterol).
• With his start at first base in Game Three, Ji-Man Choi
became the first Korean-born position player to appear in
a World Series game. He also became the first Korean-born player to record a hit.
WORLD SERIES UMPIRES
• Bill Miller will serve as primary Crew Chief for the umpires
in the 2020 World Series, and this will be the fourth Fall
Classic for Miller (2010, 13, 17). Miller, who will be
behind the plate for Game Three, will be joined by (with
Game Three Assignments and number of World Series
appearances, including 2020) Laz Diaz (LF, third), Chris
Guccione (off, second), Marvin Hudson (1B, second),
Jerry Meals (2B, second), Mark Carlson (3B, second) and
Todd Tichenor (RF, first). Meals served as the crew chief
in Game Two of the World Series. The Replay Official
during the World Series will be Major League Umpire
Adrian Johnson, who will be assisted by Major League
Umpire David Rackley.
MLB is deeply saddened by the passing of 34-year Major
League Umpire Derryl Cousins at the age of 74. The
Californian worked nearly 4,500 games and three World
Series (1988, 1999, 2005) and was behind the plate for White
Sox clincher in 2005.
OCT. 23rd IN BASEBALL HISTORY
Today in Baseball history, several notable feats:
• In 1910, Philadelphia’s Jack Coombs won his third game
of the World Series as the Athletics took the championship
in five games, beating the Chicago Cubs, 7-2. Eddie
Collins had three hits, including two doubles, to lead the
A’s attack. • In 1945, Brooklyn Dodgers President Branch Rickey
announced the signing of Jackie Robinson. • In 1985, Bruce Hurst tossed a complete game, scattering
10 hits with a walk and six strikeouts, to give the Red Sox
a 4-2 win over the New York Mets and a 3-2 series lead.
• In 1993, Toronto’s Joe Carter hit the second World
Series-ending home run ever, a three-run shot off Mitch
Williams in the ninth inning that gave the Blue Jays an
8-6 victory over the Philadelphia Phillies in Game 6. It
secured Toronto’s second straight World Series crown.
• In 1996, The New York Yankees overcame a 6-0 deficit
in Game 4 of the Fall Classic against the Atlanta Braves,
highlighted by a game-tying three-run homer in the eighth
inning by Jim Leyritz. The Yankees won in the 10th inning
and tied the series at 2-2, swinging the momentum in
their favor.
• In 2006, The Cardinals clinched the World Series over the
Detroit Tigers as Tony La Russa joined Sparky Anderson
as the only managers to win the World Series with a club
in both leagues.
Los Angeles Lakers star LeBron James is once again recognized as the best player in the world on the NBA’s flagship video game.
LeBron James once again the highest-rated player in NBA 2K21 — LeBron Wire
TAMPA BAY RAYS (0-1) at LOS ANGELES DODGERS (1-0)
LH Blake Snell (2-2, 3.20) vs. RH Tony Gonsolin (0-1, 9.95)
October 21, 2020 First Pitch: 8:08 p.m. Location: Globe Life Field TV: FOX Radio: ESPN Radio, WDAE 95.3 FM/620 AM, WGES 680 AM (Sp.)
BY THE NUMBERS—The Rays trail this best-of-seven, 1-0, after their 8-3
loss last night…in club history, the Rays have won two postseason series
after losing Game 1: the 2020 Division Series vs. NYY and 2008 League
Championship Series vs. BOS…the loser of Game 1 of the World Series
has come back to win it all 43 of 115 times (37.4 pct.), most recently 2017
(Houston over Dodgers) and 2016 (Cubs over Cleveland)…of the 59 times a
World Series has been tied, 1-1, the winner of Game 2 has gone on to win
it all on 31 occasions (52.5 pct.)…however, only 11 of 56 times (19.6 pct.) has
a team come back to win the World Series after falling behind 2-0, and no
team has come back from a 2-0 deficit to win a World Series since 1996.
FALL CLASSIC—The Rays are playing in the World Series for the second
time in franchise history, losing 4-1 to the Phillies in 2008…the Rays are
25-26 all-time in the postseason and 1-5 in the World Series, with their
only win coming in Game 2 in 2008 vs. PHI (at Tropicana Field)…RH
James Shields has the only win in Rays World Series history, and their
starting lineup that night was Iwamura (2B), Upton (CF), Peña (1B), Longoria (3B), Crawford (LF), Floyd (DH), Navarro (C), Baldelli (RF), Bartlett (SS).
– Kevin Cash, 42, is the youngest manager to reach the World Series
since Ozzie Guillén (41) led the White Sox to the title in 2005.
– The Rays were the ninth team in major league history to play a
“winner take all” game in the Division Series and League Championship Series but only the third team to win both, joining the 2012
Giants (won World Series) and 1981 Dodgers (won World Series).
– Combining regular season and postseason, the Rays have only lost
once in their last 19 series since Aug 4, going 14-1-4 in series play.
TO BE THE BEST—Despite an expanded 16-team postseason field, the
World Series features the AL’s No. 1 seed against the NL’s No. 1 seed…this
is the fourth time in the Wild Card era (1994) both No. 1 seeds have made
the World Series, following 2013 (Red Sox over Cardinals), 1999 (Yankees
over Braves) and 1995 (Braves over Indians)…this is the third time the two
No. 1 seeds held the best two records in the majors (2013, 1995)…in 1999,
the Yankees were the AL’s No. 1 seed but had the 3rd-best record overall.
– The Rays and Dodgers combined for a .692 winning pct. in the regular season…according to Stats LLC, this is the highest combined
regular-season winning pct. for a World Series matchup all-time,
surpassing the 1906 WS between the Cubs and White Sox (.690).
– Both the Rays and Dodgers won Game 7s of their League Championship Series…it was the third time since the LCS expanded to a
best-of-seven format (1985) that both went 7 games (2004, 2003).
THE FRESHMAN CLASS-IC—Only one of the 28 players on the World
Series roster entered Game 1 with prior World Series experience: Charlie Morton…in comparison, the Dodgers have 17 players on their World
Series roster who had previously played in the Fall Classic…according to
the Elias Sports Bureau, this is the largest difference among players with
World Series experience since 2000, when the Yankees had 21 and the
Mets had four…entering Game 1, the Dodgers roster had combined for 123
World Series games played and the Rays roster had combined for two.
RAYS vs. DODGERS—The two clubs did not meet in 2020…the Rays went
2-2 against the Dodgers in 2019 (1-1 at home, 1-1 on the road) and are 7-10
all-time against them…albeit in a shortened season, the Rays and Dodgers both won two-thirds of their games—a benchmark reached by only
six other teams in the last 50 seasons: 2018 Red Sox (.667), 2001 Mariners
(.716), 1998 Yankees (.704), 1995 Indians (.694), 1986 Mets (.667) and 1975
Reds (.667)…five of the past six reached the World Series and four won it.
– RH Dylan Floro (2016), LH Adam Kolarek (2017-19) and LH Jake
McGee (2010-15) all formerly pitched for the Rays…LH David
Price, who opted out of the 2020 season, was selected first overall
in the 2007 June Draft…he is the club’s all-time leader with a 3.18
ERA (min. 300 IP) and his 2012 AL Cy Young Award was the first
in franchise history…he was on the mound when the Rays won
Game 7 of the 2008 ALCS and the “Game 163” tiebreaker in 2013.
– The Dodgers hired President of Baseball Operations Andrew
Friedman, who was with the Rays for nine seasons (including two
division titles and a World Series appearance), on Oct 14, 2014.
ABOUT THE OFFENSE—The Rays are batting .208 (99-for-477) this postseason, including .199 (50-for-251) since the start of the League Championship Series…the Rays entered the World Series with a .209 avg., the
3rd-lowest in the Wild Card era (1994) among teams to make it that far…
the Rays have scored more than 4 runs once in their last 10 games, a 5-2
win in Game 3 of the ALCS at HOU…they have scored 4 runs (or fewer)
in five straight games, and 3 runs (or fewer) in six of their last 10 games.
– According to ESPN Stats & Info, starting with Game 4 of the Division Series the Rays have hit .230 (or below) in 10 consecutive
games, extending the longest such streak in postseason history.
– The Rays are batting .189 (14-for-74) with RISP this postseason, including .160 (8-for-50) in the last 10 games…in Game 1, Mike Brosseau’s RBI single snapped the club’s 0-for-16 drought with RISP.
– The Rays are 6-1 this postseason when scoring first, after going a
major-league-best 25-6 (.806) when doing so in the reg. season.
POWER BALL—70.0 pct. (42 of 60) of the Rays runs this postseason have
come on home runs, compared to 41.5 pct. (120 of 289) during the regular
season…this was 71.9 pct. entering the World Series, the highest rate alltime ahead of the 1971 Pirates (58.3 pct.)…the Rays have hit 26 HR in 15
postseason games, including multiple homers in nine of their 15 games…
the Rays have increased their HR/G from 1.33 during the regular season
to 1.73 in the postseason, but their R/G has dropped from 4.82 to 4.00.
– Teams are 32-4 this postseason when they outhomer their opponent—but the Rays have won once when outhomered and lost
twice when outhomering their opponent…the Rays are 6-2 when
they outhomer their opponent and 6-3 when hitting 2 HR (or more),
after going 20-2 and 20-4, respectively, in the regular season.
NOT THE RAYS WAY—The Rays allowed 8 runs in Game 1, their 2ndmost this postseason behind Game 1 of the ALDS vs. NYY (9)—a series the
Rays came back to win…the Rays have allowed 8 runs (or more) twice this
postseason, something they didn’t do at all in the final 39 games of the
regular season…they have allowed 23 HR, including at least 1 HR in 13 of
their last 14 games…73.9 pct. (17 of 23) of their homers allowed have been
solo, and 56.1 pct. (32 of 57) of their runs allowed have come on homers.
– The Rays have pitched to a 3.70 ERA (131.1-IP, 54-ER) in the postseason…they have yielded 2 runs (or fewer) in seven of their 9 wins.
– Combining regular season and postseason, the Rays have a majorleague-record 13 different pitchers with a save and are 36-1, 33-0
and 40-0 when leading after 6, 7 and 8 innings, respectively.
– Since July 28, 2019, the Rays have won 63 straight games when
leading after 7 innings, the longest active streak in the majors.
THE GREAT RANDINO—Randy Arozarena hit .321 (9-for-28) with 4 HR
and 6 RBI in the League Championship
Series and became the first rookie position player to be named Most Valuable
Player of a LCS or the World Series…in
Game 7, his 2-run homer in the 1st inning was his seventh of the postseason,
passing Evan Longoria (6) in 2008 for
the most by a rookie in a single postseason…his 7 HR are tied with B.J. Upton
in 2008 for most in a single postseason
in Rays history, and rank 2nd in team
history all-time behind Evan Longoria
(9)…in Game 7, he became the first Rays rookie to homer in a “winner
take all” game and became the first major league rookie with a go-ahead
homer in a Game 7 since FLA Miguel Cabrera in the 2003 NLCS at CHC.
– He leads all players this postseason in runs (14, tied), hits (21), extrabase hits (11) and total bases (47)…his 21 hits, 11 XBH and 47 total
bases are all the most in a single postseason in club history…he is
2 runs shy of tying the club record, set by B.J. Upton (16) in 2008.
– He is 1 hit shy of tying NYY Derek Jeter in 1996 for the most by a
rookie in a single postseason…he is the first rookie in major league
history with four 3-hit games in a single postseason…this ties a
postseason record for 3-hit games (regardless of rookie status).
MINOR MATTERS—The Rays are the sixth team to rank No. 1 in Baseball
America’s preseason Organizational Talent Rankings and advance to the
World Series that same year…they are attempting to become the third
team to win the World Series when ranked No. 1 in these rankings…special thanks to J.J. Cooper of Baseball America for the research…the Rays
joined the 2013 Cardinals, 2008 Rays, 1999 Braves, 1995 Braves (won
World Series) and 1993 Blue Jays (won World Series)…Baseball America
debuted their Organizational Talent Rankings in 1984…their current Top
100 list includes seven Rays and is bookended by a pair of Rays, with INF
Wander Franco at No. 1 overall and OF Randy Arozarena at No. 100.
UPCOMING PROBABLE PITCHERS & BROADCAST SCHEDULE
Upcoming Games Time (ET) Probable Starting Pitchers (Rays vs. Opp.) TV & Radio
Thurs., 10/22 vs. LAD 8:08 p.m. RH Charlie Morton (3-0, 0.57) vs. RH Walker Buehler (1-0, 1.89) FOX, ESPN Radio, WDAE 95.3 FM/620 AM, WGES 680 AM
TONIGHT’S GAME 2 STARTER: LH BLAKE SNELL (2-2, 3.20 ERA)
LAST START—In Game 6 of the League Championship Series vs. HOU, was charged 2 runs in 4 IP and took his second loss of the postseason…needed 42 pitches to complete his first 2 IP, allowing 1 hit and 3 BB, but induced an inning-ending SO/CS in the 1st inning and 5-4-3 GDP in the 2nd to avoid any damage…went 1-2-3 in the 3rd, then stranded a leadoff single in the 4th…allowed a walk and single to start the 5th before being replaced, and Diego Castillo allowed both runners to score on a 2-run single to George Springer…his line: L, 4 IP, 3 H, 2 R, 4 BB, 4 SO, 1 WP, 82 pit., 45 str.
– Marked his shortest start since Aug 7 vs. NYY (3 IP)…spanning regular season
and postseason, snapped a streak of 11 consecutive starts of 5 IP (or more).
POSTSEASON—Is 2-3 with a 2.88 ERA (25-IP, 8-ER) in seven career postseason apps (5 starts), including a 3.20 ERA (19.2-IP, 7-ER) in 4 starts this postseason…has allowed 1 hit in 9 AB with RISP this postseason, yielding an infield single that didn’t produce a run to HOU Aledmys Díaz in Game 1 of the ALCS…his avg. fastball velocity this
postseason is 95.6 mph, according to StatCast, 5th-fastest by a left-handed pitcher in a single postseason (min. 100 fastballs) since pitch velocities are available (2008).
– After recording 18 swings-and-misses in Game 1 of the Wild Card Series vs.
TOR, has recorded a combined 25 swings-and-misses in his 3 starts since.
– In Game 1 of the League Championship Series, recorded the win after yielding 1 run in 5 IP…in Game 1 of the Division Series vs. NYY, took the loss after
allowing 4 runs, including a club postseason-record-tying 3 HR, in 5 IP…in
Game 1 of the Wild Card Series vs. TOR, did not allow a hit until a leadoff
single in the 6th inning…was the first left-handed pitcher in major league history to record 9 SO (or more) and yield 1 hit (or fewer) in a postseason game.
vs. DODGERS—Will be making his second career start against the Dodgers…his only previous start against them came on Sep 17, 2019 at Dodger Stadium, when he returned from the 10-day IL (loose bodies in left elbow) and made his first start since July 21 vs. CWS…retired all 6 BF, including four via strikeout.
– Is 8-4 with a 2.07 ERA (91.1-IP, 21-ER) in 16 career interleague starts, the 3rd-best interleague ERA in the majors since 2016 behind WAS Max
Scherzer (1.92) and LAD Clayton Kershaw (2.02)…has yielded 2 runs (or fewer) in 13 of 16 starts, 1 run (or fewer) in 10 starts and 0 runs in 8 starts.
2020 IN REVIEW—Made 11 starts, tied with Glasnow for the team lead…yielded 3 runs (or fewer) in 10 of 11 starts and 2 runs (or fewer) in seven of 11.
– His avg. fastball velocity, according to FanGraphs, was 95.1 mph, 6th in the AL…min. 50 IP, his 11.34 SO/9 IP ratio ranked 5th in the AL…struck out
31.0 pct. (63 of 203) of batters faced, best among lefties in the majors…walked 8.9 pct. (18 of 203) of batters faced, the lowest rate of his career.
-Allowed 10 HR for a 1.80 HR/9 IP ratio, 5th-highest in the AL (min. 50 IP), after yielding 14 HR in 107 IP in 2019…29.4 pct. of his fly balls were homers, according to FanGraphs, the highest rate in the majors…allowed multiple homers in four of his 11 starts…yielded 3 HR against lefties.
– Ranks among the top five in club history with 648 SO (5th), 3.24 ERA (2nd to David Price, 3.18), .223 opp avg. (1st) and .583 winning pct. (3rd).
SEEKING LENGTH—Averaged just over 4.1 IP per start, using his first 3 starts as a continuation of the summer camp build up…went 2 IP, 3 IP and 3 IP
in his first 3 starts, then recorded between 15-17 outs in each of his final 8 starts of the regular season…only faced 23 batters the third time through the
lineup…has gone fewer than 6 IP in 14 consecutive regular-season starts beginning on Sep 17, 2019 at LAD, when he returned from arthroscopic surgery
to remove loose bodies from his left elbow…was one of six pitchers in the majors to make at least 10 starts and go fewer than 6 IP in all of them.
ON THE OFFSPEED—Held opponents to a .132 avg. (5-for-38) in at-bats ending with his curveball, 5th in the AL (min. 25 AB), according to StatCast…61.8
pct. (34 of 55) of swings against his curveball were misses, the best rate of his career on any pitch…opponents hit .033 (1-for-30) with 17 SO in at-bats ending
with his slider…his combined .088 opp avg. (6-for-68) in at-bats ending with breaking balls was 3rd in the majors (min. 50 AB).
Tampa Bay Rays (40-20, 9-6) vs. LOS ANGELES DODGERS (43-17, 10-3)
LHP Blake Snell (2-2, 3.20) vs. RHP Tony Gonsolin (0-1, 9.95)
Wednesday, October 21, 2020 | 7:08 p.m. CT | Globe Life Field | Arlington, TX
World Series – Game 2
TV: FOX | Radio: AM 570 (Eng.); 1020 AM (Span.), ESPN Radio, AM 1540 (Kor.)
THE BRIGHT LIGHTS: The Dodgers jumped out to an early 2-0
lead and then scored four more runs in the bottom of the fifth to run
away with Game 1 of the World Series, 8-3, on Tuesday night. The
Dodgers walked seven times and recorded 10 hits as they won their
fourth straight postseason contest. In their last four postseason
games, the Dodgers have outscored the opposition, 22-10, and have
not allowed more than three runs in any of those games. In the 2020
postseason, the Dodgers have scored 3+ runs in 11 of their 13 games
while allowing 3 runs or less in nine of their 13 contests. The World
Series continues tonight with Game 2 at 7:08 p.m. CT before the two
teams enjoy an off day tomorrow and return to action on Friday night
with potentially three straight contests from Friday to Sunday.
Clayton Kershaw delivered in the third Game 1 World
Series start of his career, tossing 6.0 innings, allowing one
run (solo homer) and striking out eight batters. With his
strikeout of Willy Adames in the fifth inning, he passed
John Smoltz for second on the all-time postseason strikeout
list and became the second player in MLB history to record
200+ strikeouts, joining Justin Verlander (205). He is now
2-2 with a 4.68 ERA (17 ER/32.2 IP) and 35 strikeouts in
six World Series games (five starts).
Cody Bellinger socked another homer and put the Dodgers
on the board early, giving them a 2-0 lead in the fourth
inning. He became the second player in MLB history to
record a go-ahead home run in Game 7 of the LCS and hit
a homer in Game 1 of the World Series in the same year,
joining David Ortiz (2004).
The Dodgers are in their 21st World Series in franchise
history and the 12th Fall Classic appearance since moving
to Los Angeles in 1958. They now have the second most
WS appearances in MLB history, trailing only the New
York Yankees (40).
M-V-SEAGS: Corey Seager was named the 2020 NLCS MVP on
Sunday night after going 9-for-29 with five homers and 11 RBI.
Seager set NLCS records in both homers and RBI and his seven
extra-base hits are tied with Javy Lopez (1996) for the all-time NLCS
record. The native of North Carolina’s 26 total bases are the second
most all-time in an NLCS and second most to Albert Pujols, who had
28 in 2004 vs. Houston.
The infielder began his World Series campaign with three
walks and a run scored on Tuesday. It was the first time in
his career that he has drawn three walks in a postseason
game and only the fourth time in any game.
Seager finished one home run shy from tying the record for
home runs in any Postseason series, which is held by the
Rangers’ Nelson Cruz (6 in the 2011 ALCS vs. Detroit). He
is one of eight players all-time to reach at least five homers
and 11 RBI in a single Postseason. His six home runs and
15 RBI this postseason are both Dodger records for homers
and RBI in a single Postseason.
In Game 3 of the NLCS, Seager became the second player
in Postseason history to collect an RBI in five consecutive
at-bats (last two of Game 2 and first three of Game 3),
joining Carlos Beltran (2004). Last week, it was announced
that Seager was one of seven National League finalists for
the Hank Aaron Award, given to the most outstanding
regular season offensive performer in each league.
POSTSEASON POWER: Cody Bellinger and Mookie Betts each
homered on Tuesday night and the Dodgers are now third in the
Majors in postseason homers with 20, trailing the Rays (26) and
Astros (22). Betts clubbed his first postseason homer in Dodger Blue
while Bellinger inched his way closer to Hall of Famer Duke
Snider’s record for Dodger Postseason home runs. The list: Snider
(11), Steve Garvey (10), Justin Turner (10), Corey Seager (9),
Max Muncy (8), Joc Pederson (8), Kiké Hernández (8), Cody
Bellinger (8) and Adrían González (7).
CAT CALL: Right-hander Tony Gonsolin will take the mound
tonight for his second postseason start and his third appearance in the
2020 postseason after allowing two runs on two hits in 2.0 innings
on Sunday night in Game 7 of the NLCS. In his two postseason
appearances, he is 0-1 with a 9.95 ERA (7 ER/6.1 IP) and eight
strikeouts. On the season, he went 2-2 with a 2.31 ERA (12 ER/46.2
IP) and 46 strikeouts in nine games (eight starts) this season. In his
eight starts, Gonsolin was 2-1 with a 1.94 ERA (9 ER/41.2 IP) and
43 strikeouts. In parts of two season with the Dodgers, the California
native is a combined 6-4 with a 2.60 ERA (25 ER/86.2 IP) and 83
strikeouts.
The 2018 Dodgers’ Minor League Pitcher of the Year was
a combined 20-14 with a 3.33 ERA (100 ER/270.1 IP) and
315 strikeouts in four minor league seasons.
OCTOBER RED: Dodger third baseman Justin Turner went 1-
for-4 with one walk and extended his postseason on-base streak to
nine games on Tuesday. During his on-base streak, he is batting .273
(9-for-33) with three doubles, one homer and two RBI, while
reaching base 16 of his 40 plate appearances. The infielder has 72
postseason hits, which is a Dodger postseason record. The 2017 AllStar set the record in Game 3 of the NLDS vs. San Diego, surpassing
Steve Garvey (63). Turner also holds the club record for Postseason
RBI with 39 and playoff doubles with 16. In 66 career postseason
games (all with L.A.), Turner has hit .291 (72-for-247) with 10
homers, 16 doubles and an .882 OPS.
The infielder ended the season having reached base safely
in 31 consecutive games with a plate appearance, doing so
from Aug. 4-Sept. 27, the longest on-base streak of his
career (previous high: 28, 2011). It marked the second
longest streak in the Majors this year behind only Freddie
Freeman’s 33-game on-base streak from Aug. 11-Sept. 18. Among players with 150 or more AB, Turner ranked among the NL leaders in average (.307, 13th) and OBP (.400, T-9th). He reached 1,000 career hits with a second-inning double on August 11 against the Padres.
Turner was the Dodgers’ nominee for the Roberto Clemente
Award for the third time in four years (also: 2017, ’18) and
won his third-career Roy Campanella Award as the most
inspirational Dodger.
NO MAN LIKE MOOK: After signing a 12-year contract
extension that will keep him in Dodger blue through 2032 prior to
Opening Day, Mookie Betts made a bid to join Frank Robinson as
the only player to win the MVP award in both leagues. Betts ranked
among the NL leaders in hits (64, T-10th), runs (47, 4th), batting
average (.292, 16th), OBP (.366, 17th), SLG (.562, 13th), steals (10,
T-5th) and homers (16, T-3rd). Betts went 18-for-41 (.439) with
runners in scoring position, the third best mark in the Majors,
and was at his best late in games, posting a .343 (24-for70)/.370/.643 slashline from the seventh inning and later.
In Game 1 of the World Series, Betts went 2-for-4 with a
homer, two runs scored and two stolen bases and became
the first player in MLB history with two runs, two stolen
bases and a homer in a World Series game.
Betts, 28, has hit safely in 11 of 13 playoff games this year,
going 16-for-49 (.327) with six doubles, one homer and six
RBI. 15 of his 36 playoff hits have gone for extra-bases (13
doubles, two homers). The Dodgers are 10-1 in the
postseason when he records at least one hit.
On Aug. 13, he homered three times against the Padres,
joining Hall-of-Famer Johnny Mize and Sammy Sosa as the
only players in MLB history with six career three-homer
games. Betts also collected career-hit No. 1,000 on Aug. 27
vs. San Francisco.
MATCHUP vs. RAYS
Regular Season All-Time vs. Rays: LA leads series, 10-7
2019: Teams Split Series, 2-2 (1-1 at Dodger Stadium)
2020 Postseason: Los Angeles leads series, 1-0
Oct. 20 vs. TB at Globe Life Field: W, 8-3 W: Kershaw L: Glasnow.
WHERE THERE’S A WILL: Dodger catcher Will Smith had a
game for the ages in Game 3 of the NLDS vs. San Diego, going 5-
for-6 with two doubles and three RBI. Smith became the first Dodger
to collect five hits in a playoff game and was also the youngest player
and first catcher in Postseason history with a five-hit contest (25
years, 194 days). In 11 games this Postseason, Smith is hitting .220
(9-for-41) with a homer, three doubles, nine RBI and four runs.
EIGHT’S NOT ENOUGH: The Dodgers went 43-17 in the 60-
game season to win their record eighth straight NL West title with
the best record in the Majors. The club’s .717 winning percentage
was the best in franchise history and marked the seventh time in club
history that the Dodgers posted the Majors’ best mark (last: 2017).
The Dodgers won a division title for the eighth straight year,
something only two other franchises have accomplished:
MLB All-Time – Most Consecutive Division Titles
Braves, 1991-2005 14
Yankees, 1998-2006 9
Dodgers, 2013-2020 8 (active streak)
Source: Stats, LLC
The Dodgers reached the World Series in each of their six
previous seasons with the best record in the Majors:
Dodgers Finishing w/MLB’s Best Record, All-time
1949 Brooklyn Dodgers (tied) 97-57 (.630) Lost WS (4-1 NYY)
1952 Brooklyn Dodgers 96-57 (.627) Lost WS (4-3 NYY)
1953 Brooklyn Dodgers 105-49 (.682) Lost WS (4-2 NYY)
1955 Brooklyn Dodgers 98-55 (.641) Won WS (4-3 vs NYY)
1974 Los Angeles Dodgers 102-60 (.630) Lost WS (4-1 Oak)
2017 Los Angeles Dodgers 104-58 (.642) Lost WS (4-3 Hou)
2020 Los Angeles Dodgers 43-17 (.717) ???
THE LONG BALL: Los Angeles led the Majors with 118 home
runs in 60 games, an average of 1.97 per game. The 1.97 homers per
game represent the top mark in MLB history, topping the 2019
Minnesota Twins (1.90). The Dodgers’ previous high came last year
when the club averaged 1.72 home runs per game.
The Dodgers blasted 57 home runs in 28 August games,
setting a National League record for most home runs in a
calendar month. The mark was previously held by the
Atlanta Braves, who hit 56 in June 2019.
AJ Pollock and Mookie Betts tied for the team lead and for
third in the National League with 16 homers. Los Angeles
homered in 49 of its 60 games and went 39-10 when hitting
at least one homer. The Dodgers were 28-8 when hitting
two or more home runs in a game.
The Dodgers had five players reach double digit home runs
in the 60-game season, with Pollock, Betts, Corey Seager
(15, T-9
th NL), Cody Bellinger (12, T-18th NL) and Max
Muncy (12, T-18th NL) turning the trick. The five players
with 10+ home runs tied for the MLB lead with the Braves,
White Sox and Phillies.
I’M ABOUT TO RUN: The Dodgers led the Majors with a +136
run differential, 52 better than the next best team (Padres +84). Even
with the shortened 60-game season, the 2020 Dodgers’ +136 run
differential represents the ninth best mark in Los Angeles history.
Los Angeles led MLB with 349 runs scored, and ranked
second with 213 runs allowed (Indians, 1st, 209).
The Dodgers’ 5.82 runs per game were the most
in franchise history and ranked as the third most in NL
history behind only the 1996 & 2000 Colorado Rockies.
Los Angeles hitters batted .291 combined with runners in
scoring position (137-for-470), the second-bast mark in the
Majors behind the Padres (.310).
Los Angeles was not shut out all season, the only team in
the Majors to avoid that distinction. The Dodgers scored
five or more runs in 39 of their 60 games, posting a 36-3
record in those contests. The Dodgers scored 122 runs in
the seventh inning or later, the second most in the Majors
(Padres, 124), which helped L.A. register 19 comeback
wins. The club outscored the opposition 122-66 from the
seventh inning on.
SERIES BUSINESS: The Dodgers lost just one series all year – at
home vs. Colorado Sept. 4-6 – and finished the season with a 15-1-4
series record, including six series sweeps. Los Angeles opened the
season by going unbeaten its first 13 series, which is the fifth best
season-opening run in the divisional era (since 1969). The 1977
Dodgers hold the club mark with 14.
Los Angeles went unbeaten in its 10 road series, posting a
9-0-1 series record.
The Dodgers won the season series against every club they
played this year. According to the Elias Sports Bureau, the
Dodgers became just the 4th team in the World Series era
(since 1903) to win at least 60% of their decisions against
every team they faced in a season and the first to do so in
101 years.
START ME UP: The Dodgers led the Majors in team ERA
(3.02), opponents’ batting average (.213) and WHIP (1.06), and
allowed just 1.10 home runs per 9.0 innings – the best mark in the
National League and second best in the Majors behind the Twins
(1.09). The Dodgers walked just 2.42 per 9.0 innings (1st, MLB) and
posted the best strikeout-to-walk ratio (3.96) in the NL.
Los Angeles starters led the NL with a 3.29 combined ERA
(101 ER/276.1 IP), limited opponents to a .219 batting
average (2nd, MLB) and posted an MLB-best 1.07 WHIP.
Clayton Kershaw led the Dodgers in wins (6), innings
(58.1) and strikeouts (62) in his 13th MLB season, going 6-
2 with a 2.16 ERA in 10 starts. Kershaw ranked among the
NL leaders (min. 55 IP) in wins (T-4
th), ERA (5th),
opponents’ batting average (.194, 5th) and WHIP (0.84, 2nd).
On Sept. 3, Kershaw reached 2,500 strikeouts by fanning
Arizona’s Nick Ahmed, becoming the third-youngest
pitcher in MLB history to reach the mark at 32 years, 168
days, behind only Nolan Ryan (31 years, 101 days) and
Walter Johnson (31 years, 197 days). He ended the season
ranked 36th on the all-time strikeout list, nine behind
Bartolo Colon.
Among rookies with 40.0 or more innings
pitched, Tony Gonsolin (2.31) and Dustin May (2.57)
ranked first and second, respectively, in ERA.
In nine games (eight starts), Gonsolin limited opponents to
a .189 batting average, allowed just two home runs, walked
seven, struck out 46 in 46.2 innings and posted a 0.84
WHIP – the fourth best mark in the Majors among pitchers
with 40.0 or more innings.
May became the first Dodger rookie to start on Opening
Day since Fernando Valenzuela replaced an injured Jerry
Reuss in 1981 and allowed just one run in 4.1 innings in a
no-decision on July 23 against the Giants. In 12 games (10
starts), he went 3-1 and ranked among the NL leaders (min.
50.0 IP) in ERA (2.57, 8th), opponents’ batting
average (.220, T-13th) and WHIP (1.09, T-12th).
OH WHAT A RELIEF: Dodger relievers posted a 2.74 ERA, the
best mark in the NL and the second best in the Majors behind only
the Athletics (2.72). The Los Angeles bullpen held opponents to a
.207 average (1st
, MLB) and posted a 1.04 WHIP, the best mark in
the big leagues. Dodger relievers issued just 2.57 walks per 9.0
innings and allowed only 0.82 HR/9.0 innings, leading the Majors in
both categories.
Four Los Angeles relievers placed among the NL’s top 20
qualifying relievers in ERA: Adam Kolarek (0.95,
3rd), Victor González (1.40, 4th), Dylan Floro (2.59, 16th)
and Jake McGee (2.66, T-19th).
The Dodgers had five relievers with a WHIP of 1.00 or
lower: Gonzalez (0.72, 4th NL), Kolarek (0.79, 6th NL),
McGee (0.84, 8th NL), Brusdar Graterol (0.86, T-9
th NL) and Pedro Báez (1.00, T-24th NL).
Dodger closer Kenley Jansen was selected as the National
League’s Reliever of the Month for July/August, going 1-0
with nine saves in 10 opportunities and posting a 1.23 ERA
(2 ER/14.2 IP). It was Jansen’s second career monthly
award (also: June 2017).
THE DOCTOR IS IN: Dave Roberts made it a perfect 5-for-5,
becoming the first manager in MLB history to lead his team to a
division title in each of his first five full seasons. Under Roberts, the
Dodgers have posted a Major League best 436-273 (.615) record
since 2016.Over the course of the unusual 60-game season, Roberts
used an amazing 56 different lineups in piloting the team to a .717
winning percentage.
BIG BOSS MAN: Dodger President of Baseball Operations
Andrew Friedman assembled his sixth division-winning club in as
many seasons after joining the Dodgers in the Fall of 2014. This year,
Friedman pulled off his biggest moves before the club played a
game, acquiring Mookie Betts in a three-way deal with the Red Sox
and Twins and then signing Betts to a 12-year contract on the eve of
the 60-game restart. Since taking over the top spot in baseball
operations, Freidman’s Dodger teams have gone 528-343 (.606)
while setting the record for most wins in Los Angeles Dodger history
in 2019 (106, franchise record) and the highest winning percentage
in club history (.717, 2020).
Game 3 Starter – RHP Walker Buehler: 1-0, 1.89 ERA in 4 GS
2020 Postseason:
Fired 6.0 scoreless innings in his tenth postseason start against the Braves in Game 6 of
the NLCS…despite giving up seven hits, the Kentucky native struck out six and did not
issue a walk as he earned his first win of the 2020 postseason…also started Game 1, delivering 5.0 solid frames, allowing just one run on three hits while striking out seven and issuing five walks on 100 pitches
Tossed 4.0 innings on one-run ball in Game 1 of the Division Series vs. the Padres, allowing two hits and four walks while striking out eight…also started Game 1 of the Wild Card Series against the Brewers, giving up two earned runs on three hits as he delivered 4.0 frames, striking out eight and walking two while not factoring in the decision as Los Angeles routed Milwaukee, 4-2
2020 Regular Season:
Finished the season going 1-0 with a 3.44 ERA (14 ER/36.2 IP) over eight starts, limiting opponents to a .178 average (24-for-135)
Struck out 42 batters and walked just eleven during his eight appearances…posted a 0.95 WHIP and 10.31 strikeout-per-nine innings mark
Has pitched especially well at Dodger Stadium, keeping opponents to a .114/.195/.129 slashline over four games…struck out 29 batters and walked just six in those appearances
His best outing of the year occurred at Dodger Stadium against Colorado on August 21, where he tossed 6.0 innings of one-run ball, collecting a season-high 11 strikeouts while giving up only four hits…the Dodgers eventually won that matchup 5-1
Made two trips to the Injured List, both for a blister on his right hand, from Aug. 23 to Sept. 2 and again from Sept. 9 to Sept. 24….the Boys in Blue went 12-7 over that 19-game span
Career vs. Tampa Bay:
Will face the Rays for the first time in his career
Career Postseason:
Has gone 2-1 with a 2.44 ERA (15 ER/55.1 IP) in 10 postseason starts, striking out 73 batters against 21 walks and limiting opposition to a .182 batting average…also owns a 1.03 WHIP and four quality starts
Has fanned at least seven batters in nine of his ten postseason starts…according to Elias, the only other pitcher who has ever has a postseason streak that long is Randy Johnson, who produced nine straight postseason starts of seven or more strikeouts from Oct. 1997 – Nov. 3, 2001
His sole World Series appearance came against Boston in Game 3 back in 2018…fired 7.0 scoreless innings, allowing just two hits as he struck out seven without issuing a walk…did not factor in the decision as the Dodgers eventually won that marathon game, 3-2, in the 18th inning
Started twice against Atlanta in the Championship Series, giving up just one earned run over 11.0 innings to go 1-0…allowed ten hits and five walks but struck out 13 …the Dodgers went 1-1 during Buehler’s outings
In Division Series matchups, including his appearance against San Diego, the righty owns a 1-0 record over four starts, producing a 2.91 ERA (7 ER/21.2 IP) with 30 strikeouts and a .123 (9-for-73) opponent batting average
Pitched against the Milwaukee in Game 1 of the Wild Card Series, throwing 4.0 innings as he gave up two runs on three hits over 73 pitches…did not factor in the decision as the Dodgers won the matchup, 4-2.
Game 2 Starter – RHP Tony Gonsolin: 0-1, 9.95 ERA in 2 G (1 GS)
2020 Postseason:
Threw from the ‘pen in Game 7 of the NLCS, tossing 2.0 innings, totaling for two earned runs, two hits, three walks, and one strikeout…made his postseason debut in Game 2, giving up five earned runs on three hits over 4.1 inning while striking out seven and walking three as he took the loss
His seven strikeouts in his first postseason appearance placed him tied for third in Dodger
history for most strikeouts in a postseason debut
2020 Regular Season:
Garnered a 2-2 record over nine games (eight starts) as he became a staple in the Dodgers’ pitching rotation this season…produced a 2.31 ERA (12 ER/46.2 IP)
accompanied with 46 strikeouts and a 0.84 WHIP
Ranks first in ERA (2.31) amongst rookies with 40.0 or more innings pitched while his counterpart Dustin May ranks second in the category with a 2.57 mark…both rookies helped Los Angeles to the top of the National League leaderboard in ERA (3.29), opponents’ batting average (.219, 2nd MLB), and 1.07 WHIP (1st MLB)
His 0.84 WHIP stands as the fourth best mark amongst pitchers with 40.0 or more innings this season
Amongst Dodger pitchers, he ranks 2nd in strikeouts (46) and 4
th in innings pitched (46.2)…gave up only seven walks and two home runs over his nine outings
Recorded a career-high 10 strikeouts on Sept. 20 against Colorado over 5.0 innings…gave up two earned runs on three hits while issuing a sole walk during that matchup
Has limited batters to a .193/.229/.289 slashline…kept lefties to a .179 average (15-for-84) and righties to a .207 average (17-for-82)
Career vs. Tampa Bay:
The 2018 Dodgers’ Minor League Pitcher of the Year has faced the Rays once on Sept. 18, 2019, throwing 2.0 innings of relief while giving up two earned runs but
striking out two and walking three
Career Postseason:
Made his postseason debut against the Braves in Game 2 of the NLCS, tossing 4.1 innings as he gave up five runs on three hits…despite taking the loss, the California
native struck out seven hitters and retired the first nine batters he faced…later threw in Game 7, giving up two earned runs over 2.0 innings while walking three
Became the fourth pitcher to make his postseason debut with a start in the League Championship Series or World Series since 2008, joining Ryan Merritt (with CLE in 2016 ALCS), Jeremy Guthrie (with KC in 2014 ALCS), and Ricky Nolasco (with LAD in 2013 NLCS)
