Stunning Comeback: Dodgers Rally in Dramatic Fashion to Defeat Rockies
The Los Angeles Dodgers executed a comeback for the ages on Tuesday night, securing an electrifying 11-9 victory over the Colorado Rockies. In a game defined by dramatic swings and late-inning heroics, the Dodgers overturned a five-run deficit in the ninth inning, a scenario in which they had historically struggled mightily.
Historic Turnaround
Heading into Tuesday's game, the Dodgers had lost 1,137 consecutive games when trailing by five or more runs in the ninth inning or later—a streak dating back to 1957. The triumph over the Rockies marked a significant milestone, as it ended the second-longest active losing streak in such situations, only behind the Seattle Mariners, who have lost 1,234 times without securing a win under these conditions.
With this victory, the Dodgers improved to a 6-2,619 record when trailing by five or more runs in the ninth inning or later. This game also saw the Dodgers achieve their highest ninth-inning run total since 2004 against the San Francisco Giants.
Key Moments and Heroic Performances
The rally was orchestrated by clutch performances from Jason Heyward and Teoscar Hernandez. Heyward, who entered the game as a pinch-hitter, launched a grand slam off Rockies pitcher Tyler Kinley. This marked Heyward's fourth career grand slam and his fourth homer of the season. The grand slam quickly followed walks by Andy Pages and Miguel Vargas, along with a single by Miguel Rojas.
Hernandez added to the momentum with a three-run homer, making it 11-9 in favor of the Dodgers. His 18th home run of the season was a pivotal moment, especially after Colorado manager Bud Black was ejected for arguing a check-swing call against Hernandez. Despite the controversy, Hernandez capitalized on the moment, sending the ball over the wall and securing the win.
"It was quality at-bats up and down the lineup," said Los Angeles manager Dave Roberts. “Jason was ready when called upon. Teo, he keeps coming up with big hits. That inning, certainly, the results showed the fight, the compete.”
Heyward shared his thoughts on the grand slam: "I wasn't sure if it was going to stay fair or not. It's Colorado, so maybe that helped it straighten out a little bit. I was like, 'Come on, squeak in, squeak in.' I honestly feel like we got rewarded for our process in the ninth."
Controversial Moments and Closing the Game
The game wasn’t without its heated moments. Colorado right fielder Jake Cave reacted strongly to the check-swing call, leading to a confrontation with first base umpire Lance Barksdale. After Hernandez's ball cleared the wall, Cave stepped toward Barksdale, yelling in frustration. Rockies second baseman Alan Trejo intervened to prevent any escalation.
Closing the game, Dodgers’ relief pitcher Evan Phillips struck out Hunter Goodman with a runner on second, securing his 11th save in as many attempts. Cave, positioned as the on-deck hitter, had to be restrained by bench coach Mike Redmond as he attempted to confront Barksdale after the game ended.
Rockies’ Early Lead and Dodgers' Resilience
The Rockies' Elehuris Montero and Brenton Doyle provided early fireworks with home runs, contributing to Colorado's four-run first inning. Doyle also had a career night, collecting four hits and making a crucial diving catch to preserve an 8-4 lead in the seventh inning.
Dodgers starter Walker Buehler struggled, allowing eight hits and seven runs in four innings. This was the first time the veteran right-hander allowed more than three earned runs since returning from Tommy John surgery earlier in the season. Despite Buehler's rocky performance, the Dodgers' bullpen held firm, with reliever Michael Petersen striking out two in his major league debut.
"It was crazy. You can't feel anything. It's like your first date; you are tripping over stuff. But awesome," Petersen said, reflecting on his debut.
Looking Ahead
The Dodgers have now won four of their last five games and hold a dominant 73-32 record against Colorado since 2018. As they continue their push towards the postseason, the resilience and grit displayed in this historic comeback could be a defining moment in their campaign.
The Rockies, on the other hand, have now lost five of their last six games. They will need to regroup quickly if they hope to rebound and remain competitive in the final stretch of the season.