The Los Angeles Dodgers have been swept by the Philadelphia Phillies with a 5-1 score in the final game of the series on Thursday. After starter Anthony Banda lasted just one inning, Landon Knack came out in relief for the Dodgers.
Landon Knack still delivered a decent performance against the league-best Phillies, as he even sent away 11 batters in a row. However, he couldn't keep the Phillies completely quiet, as he ended up giving three runs in just 4 1/3 innings.
On the other hand, Aaron Nola showed the Dodgers why he's considered a veteran. LA was clearly undermined by Nola's delivery in six frames and 101 pitches. Even Shohei Ohtani, Will Smith, and Freddie Freeman couldn't work their magic and went home a combined 0-for-11 in the game.
The fans were disappointed with LA's performance against the NL-leading Phillies, with some expressing pessimism that they can truly contend in the playoffs.
"Yea we’re still not ready for playoffs this year. We have enough talent regardless of the injuries," one fan stated.
"Nlds or nlcs exit this year ? I predict nlds for sure," another fan opined.
Other fans also shared a similar sentiment towards LA's devastating series loss.
"C’mon, guys. What’re we doing? How’re we letting the Phillies trounce us like this?" One fan said.
"Just an absolutely embarrassing series. This team is not a winner... right now anyway," one fan commented.
"Make some adjustments - can’t do same over and over again…," one fan suggested.
Meanwhile, one fan asked a sarcastic question about Shohei Ohtani's contract amid the team's struggles.
"$700 million dollar contract really working well isn’t it??" One fan pointed out.
The Los Angeles Dodgers demoted their RHP to minors after rocky start vs Phillies
Los Angeles Dodgers relief pitcher Bobby Miller is headed for a minor league rehab stint on Tuesday. The 25-year-old had a rocky outing against Philadelphia, where he surrendered nine runs in just four innings.
Miller started the season strong, as he tossed out a complete game shutout in his first appearance. But since then, it's been a struggle. His ERA dropped down to a devastating 8.07 after the Philly game.
The demotion isn't a punishment, but a chance for Miller to refine his mechanics and rediscover his early-season dominance. He'll work with the player development staff before joining Triple-A Oklahoma City after the All-Star break.