Dodgers Edge Phillies in Game 1 of NL Division Series

PHILADELPHIA — In a tightly contested Game 1 of the National League Division Series, the Los Angeles Dodgers defeated the Philadelphia Phillies 5-3 on October 5, 2025, thanks in part to a crucial seventh-inning home run by Teoscar Hernández. With Andy Pages on second base, Hernández launched a three-run homer off Phillies pitcher Matt Strahm, marking the decisive blow in the game.

Pages’ unusual arm movements from second base sparked speculation among fans and analysts. While it is legal to pick up signs from second base, Pages denied relaying any signals to Hernández. In an interview with The Athletic, Pages acknowledged he could see Strahm’s grip but insisted he did not communicate anything during the at-bat.

Strahm defended his pitching strategy, pointing out that Pages’ actions did not affect his performance. He stated, “If ya know ball, you’d know I’ve had my hands up the better part of a decade and have fingers together for all pitches.” Strahm noted that he missed his spots, which contributed to the home run.

The game featured a sharp pitching performance from Shohei Ohtani, who started for the Dodgers. Ohtani faced tough Phillies hitters, striking out Bryce Harper and Kyle Schwarber multiple times. Roberts praised Ohtani’s ability to keep hitters guessing, stating, “You just can’t be predictable.”

In a surprising twist, Ohtani started the game with a slider instead of the expected fastball, catching Trea Turner off guard. Turner acknowledged the challenge of facing a pitcher who deviates from predictable patterns.

Glasnow, who is expected to start in Game 4 if necessary, entered the game in the seventh inning, indicating the Dodgers’ strategy of carefully managing their bullpen. Glasnow recorded five outs but left the bases loaded for relief pitcher Alex Vesia to handle. “I was in the bathroom when they called my name,” Glasnow said humorously, reflecting on his quick transition from relief to action.

The Dodgers’ aggressive pitching strategy limited the Phillies’ top hitters to just one hit in eleven at-bats during the game. According to Baseball Savant, the Dodgers threw more pitches inside the strike zone than their season average, which contributed to their success.

As the series progresses, both teams will adjust their strategies and keep their secrets close as they vie for a spot in the next round. The stakes are high, and every play counts.