Selective, Relentless, and Unshaken: Dodgers Roll Again After Early Deficit

When top Guardians prospect Travis Bazzana launched a three-run homer in the second inning, it marked the first time the Dodgers had trailed this spring, 3–2. The response was immediate.

The Boys in Blue answered with nine runs over the remainder of the game, while the pitching staff shut the door completely, holding Cleveland scoreless the rest of the way.

Critics often suggest Los Angeles relies too heavily on the home run. Through four preseason games, that narrative doesn’t hold. The Dodgers have plated 34 runs without going deep once, consistently posting crooked numbers through disciplined, relentless at-bats.

Highlights

After missing significant time following 2024 shoulder surgery, Gavin Stone made his return to the mound 542 days later and looked sharp. He needed just 15 pitches—seven of them changeups—to strike out two and induce a routine flyout in a crisp opening frame.

Freddie Freeman made his spring debut and wasted no time making an impact, delivering a two-run double in the third inning to put the Dodgers back in front for good.

Andy Pages continued his strong spring, collecting another double and driving in two more runs.

Teoscar Hernández went 2-for-2 and appears locked in early.

Prospect Josue De Paula, signed in 2022, turned in a 3-for-3 performance, scoring twice and adding an RBI in an impressive showing.

Noah Miller added to his strong camp with a 1-for-3 day and a run scored, but it was his hustle-driven, game-ending double play at second base that likely drew the most attention from the coaching staff.

The offensive theme continues to stand out. The Dodgers finished with 11 runs on 12 hits and drew six walks. Broadcaster Rick Monday noted the lineup has been selective, not merely patient. Patience works counts; selectivity hunts the right pitch and refuses to chase. It’s a controlled, aggressive approach — and a hallmark of championship-caliber offenses.