Ohtani Homers Twice, Kershaw Shines in Dodgers’ Win Over Giants

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Shohei Ohtani hit two home runs and pitched seven scoreless innings in an 11-5 victory over the San Francisco Giants on Saturday night. Ohtani, who ended a 10-game homer drought with his 24th homer in the first inning, added another solo shot in the sixth for his third multi-homer game of the season.

Clayton Kershaw, 37, delivered a vintage performance, selecting just 81 pitches to finish seven innings in what was his best start of the season. The left-handed pitcher improved to 2-0 as he dominated through the early innings.

The Giants managed to rally late, with a grand slam hit during their five-run ninth inning. Utilityman Kiké Hernández, who recorded his first career strikeout, allowed five runs on three hits and walked three while trying to preserve the bullpen. A reliever was eventually brought in to secure the final out.

The Dodgers scored five runs in the second inning, eager to bounce back after the Giants briefly tied the NL West standings with their victory on Friday night. Starting pitcher Andrew Heaney saw a rough outing, giving up six runs in an inning and a third before being pulled in the shortest start of his career.

Ohtani’s presence proved pivotal as he drove in crucial runs throughout the game. The Dodgers responded well to the pressure, leading 6-0 by the end of the second inning. Mookie Betts also contributed with a double that helped solidify the Dodgers’ lead.

Looking forward, the Dodgers are gearing up to face a tough match on Sunday, as they prepare for the series finale against the Giants with high hopes of maintaining their lead in the NL West.