Diamondbacks chase Clayton Kershaw in 1st inning and rout Dodgers 11-2 in NLDS opener

In the opening game of the NL Division Series, the Arizona Diamondbacks delivered a resounding victory, routing the Los Angeles Dodgers with a final score of 11-2. The encounter between Merrill Kelly and Clayton Kershaw held a moment of mutual acknowledgment as they engaged in long-tossing in the outfield before the game began.

Gabriel Moreno’s impressive three-run homer was the highlight of a prolific first inning for Arizona, during which they amassed six runs. This explosive start was complemented by home runs from Corbin Carroll, Alek Thomas, and Tommy Pham. Kelly, benefiting from this early run support, secured his first-ever win against the Dodgers.

Kelly, making his postseason debut at the age of 34, had previously faced adversity with an 0-11 record and a 5.49 ERA in 16 starts against the Dodgers. However, he managed to limit the NL West champions to just three hits in 6 1/3 innings, demonstrating his exceptional performance during the game.

For the Dodgers, Clayton Kershaw experienced one of the most challenging starts of his 16-year career. The three-time Cy Young Award winner struggled, conceding six runs and recording only one out in the first inning, marking a deeply disappointing performance for him.

Arizona capitalized on Kershaw’s struggles, with Ketel Marte leading off with a double, followed by a series of hits, including a three-run blast from Gabriel Moreno. Kershaw’s early exit was a rare sight, as he became the first starting pitcher in MLB postseason history to allow five hits and five runs before recording an out.

The Diamondbacks continued their offensive onslaught, with Corbin Carroll, Lourdes Gurriel Jr., and Evan Longoria contributing to extend their lead to 11-0. The Dodgers attempted to rally, but their efforts fell short, resulting in an 11-2 loss.

Game 2 of this best-of-five series is scheduled for Monday night in Los Angeles. The Dodgers now face the challenge of rebounding after a significant defeat, while the Diamondbacks seek to maintain their momentum in the postseason.

This loss for the Dodgers tied for the fifth-largest postseason defeat in the franchise’s history and marked their second consecutive Game 1 loss in the NLDS.

In summary, the Diamondbacks’ dominant performance in Game 1 set the tone for the NL Division Series, with Clayton Kershaw enduring a rare and challenging outing, ultimately leading to a convincing victory for Arizona.

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