Dodgers NLCS: Los Angeles Wins Game 5 to Stay Alive in the Series

The Dodgers and Braves were back at it again on Friday night for Game 5 of the NLCS. While Atlanta was playing to move onto the World Series, Los Angeles was just fighting to stay alive in this one.

Dustin May vs Atlanta’s Bullpen

The Dodgers were hoping to jump on the Braves early as they started their game with a reliever. That was not the case though, as A.J. Minter came in and absolutely dominated for 3 innings. Minter struck out an unbelievable 7 batters and allowed just 1 hit.

The Dodgers didn’t get nearly as much length out of Dustin May as they might have hoped, but that’s what happens in an elimination game. May went 2 innings and was charged with 1 earned run. He struck out 3 Braves but was pulled early in favor of bullpen matchups. 

Will Smith vs. Will Smith

The matchup of the game came in the top of the 6th when the Dodgers Will Smith faced Braves pitcher Will Smith. LA Will launched a three-run shot off of bad guy WIll to give Los Angeles a lead that they would not relinquish. 

Will the real Will Smith please stand up? pic.twitter.com/U6hlPhSxmy

— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) October 17, 2020

Corey Seager can’t be ignored in this one either, despite Will Smith being the guy in a big moment. Seager launched two homeruns, including a 2-run shot in the 7th inning to cap off a 3-run inning. That would turn out to be the dagger for the Braves as they fell in this one 7-3. 

COREY SEAGER, SO HOT RIGHT NOW. pic.twitter.com/v94a8F1sGi

— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) October 17, 2020

Kenley Jansen’s Return

The Dodgers went with Kenley Jansen in the 9th inning despite them being up 5 runs. All he did was come in and strike out the side on 12 pitches to lock down Game 5. Kenley looked great, with his velocity having improved and his cutter looking real sharp. 

Next up for the Dodgers

The Dodgers and Braves will go in Game 6 tomorrow afternoon with Los Angeles once again looking to stay alive. To do so, they will have to hit off of Max Fried, who pitched 6 innings and gave up just 1 run in Game 1. 

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