The Dodgers have gotten off to a strong start in the 2026 season, and on April 14, they continued that momentum with a narrow 2-1 victory over the New York Mets at Dodger Stadium. This win improved their record to 13-4, solidifying their position as one of the preseason favorites to win the World Series.
In a standout performance, Alex Vesia struck out all three batters he faced in the ninth inning, earning the save and further enhancing his impressive early-season statistics, which now include a 0.00 ERA. His performance was particularly poignant as it coincided with healthcare appreciation night, with members of the medical team who supported his family in attendance.
Yoshinobu Yamamoto also had a remarkable outing, retiring 20 consecutive batters after allowing a leadoff home run. His ability to maintain composure and control throughout the game was crucial in keeping the Mets at bay.
The Dodgers’ victory was celebrated by the team, with the Los Angeles Dodgers proclaiming, “Alex gets the save!” This sentiment reflects the growing confidence in Vesia’s abilities as a reliable closer.
Manager Dave Roberts acknowledged the significance of Vesia’s performance, noting, “The Vesias had a special group in attendance for tonight’s game.” This highlights the emotional weight of the evening, blending sports with personal milestones.
Despite the win, the Dodgers are facing challenges, including an injury to star player Mookie Betts, who played in only eight games before his setback. Additionally, Edwin Díaz’s velocity has been a concern early in the season, raising questions about the team’s depth in pitching.
As the Dodgers continue to perform well, they are on pace for an impressive 122 wins this season. Observers are keenly watching how the team navigates the season’s challenges while maintaining their winning trajectory.
With Vesia’s current form and the team’s overall performance, the Dodgers appear poised to make a significant impact this season. However, the road ahead will require consistent effort and resilience as they aim for postseason success.