Yamamoto Dominates, Dodgers Overpower Cubs for Third Straight Win

LOS ANGELES — Yoshinobu Yamamoto delivered a standout performance on the mound, leading the Los Angeles Dodgers to a 3-0 victory over the Chicago Cubs at Dodger Stadium on Friday night. The win marked Yamamoto’s first scoreless outing of the season, helping the Dodgers improve to 11-4.

The Japanese right-hander (2-1) struck out nine batters while allowing just two hits and one walk over six innings. Yamamoto was dominant from the start, reeling off strikeouts against his first two batters before retiring the side and not allowing a base runner until Kyle Tucker‘s double in the fourth inning.

“I was able to pitch with a good rhythm from the start,” Yamamoto said. “I had good control over my fastball and the location of my curveball, which allowed me to compete with a good count. It was a nice way to win.”

Tommy Edman played a pivotal role in securing the lead, launching a three-run home run in the sixth inning that added to the Dodgers’ commanding performance. Edman’s home run marked his sixth of the season, tying him for the MLB lead.

Leading off as the Dodgers’ designated hitter, Shohei Ohtani struggled at the plate, going 0-for-4, which snapped his career-best on-base streak at 14 games. Meanwhile, Seiya Suzuki led the Cubs with one hit in three at-bats as their designated hitter.

The victory extended the Dodgers’ home winning streak to seven games this season and pushed their overall winning streak at Dodger Stadium to ten games, dating back to last year’s National League Championship Series.

The Cubs remain competitive in the early stages of the season, but their recent performance has been bittersweet. Despite the loss, they had previously secured five consecutive wins, including a notable performance against the San Diego Padres before facing the Dodgers.

With the victory, the Dodgers continue to solidify their position as dominant contenders in the league. They will look to maintain their momentum as they prepare for their next matchup, aiming for continued performance from their pitching staff and consistent offensive contributions from players like Edman and Ohtani.