The Los Angeles Dodgers defeated the Cincinnati Reds 3-2 on Tuesday at Dodger Stadium, with the game’s pivotal moments coming from opposing teams’ standout plays. Will Smith hit a first-inning home run to give the Dodgers an early lead, while Elly De La Cruz executed a 105.3-mph relay throw to record an out at home plate in the third inning.
In the bottom of the third inning, Dodgers outfielder Teoscar Hernández hit a line drive to center field off Reds starter Nick Lodolo. Reds center fielder Dane Myers attempted a diving catch but missed, allowing the ball to roll to the wall. Hernández rounded the bases quickly, aiming for an inside-the-park home run. Reds left fielder JJ Bleday retrieved the ball and threw to De La Cruz, positioned in shallow center field. De La Cruz caught the throw and fired a 105.3 mph strike to home plate, where catcher Jose Trevino tagged Hernández out.
Smith’s home run in the first inning provided the Dodgers’ only early offense. Dodgers starter Tarik Skubal allowed two runs over 7 ⅓ innings, guiding the team to victory. The Dodgers’ catching situation had been unstable prior to Smith’s return from the injured list. Backup catchers Dalton Rushing, Chuckie Robinson, and Eliézer Alfonzo filled in during Smith’s nearly three-month absence due to a neck injury, with the team later trading for Hunter Feduccia and Ben Rortvedt to stabilize the position. Smith’s return was described as critical for the Dodgers’ postseason push.
Reds manager Terry Francona praised De La Cruz’s throw, comparing it to legendary outfielders. "That was one of the better throws you'll ever see, I mean, ever," Francona said. Lodolo added, "Every time he throws a ball, it's an absolute rocket." Trevino was credited for holding his position to make the tag.
The loss dropped the Reds to a record of 72-68, while the Dodgers improved to 85-55. The game highlighted both teams’ defensive strengths and offensive contributions in a tightly contested matchup.