Game 3 Highlights: Kyle Schwarber Shines as Phillies Fight Back Against Dodgers

Los Angeles — The Philadelphia Phillies turned things around in Game 3 of the National League Division Series, beating the Los Angeles Dodgers 8-2. They used a bold pitching strategy by starting Aaron Nola, their longest-tenured pitcher, as an opener. It paid off. Nola and Ranger Suárez combined to allow just one run in seven innings.

Kyle Schwarber ignited the offense with a massive home run in the fourth, and the Phillies sealed the deal with five runs in the eighth inning against Clayton Kershaw. For the first time in this series, the Phillies looked relaxed.

With the Dodgers holding a 2-1 series lead, Game 4 is set. They will put Tyler Glasnow on the mound, while the Phillies will counter with their best pitcher, Cristopher Sánchez. The series is alive again.

### Nola and Suárez Shine

Nola started strong, hitting 95.3 mph on his fastball, his best speed since July 2024. Despite his struggles earlier in the season, he retired seven of eight batters in his two innings before being pulled. Suárez then took over, allowing a home run to Tommy Edman but settling down nicely against the Dodgers’ top hitters like Shohei Ohtani and Freddie Freeman. His slider to Max Muncy in the sixth was particularly impressive, resulting in a double play when it was needed most.

### Dodgers’ Strategy Shifts

In the first two games, the Dodgers had managed to silence superstars like Schwarber and Bryce Harper. Heading into Game 3, they boasted a strong lead, and the Phillies had yet to hit a home run. Schwarber and Harper were a combined 1-for-15 with eight strikeouts until the fourth inning. That’s when things shifted dramatically. Schwarber blasted a fastball into the stands, helping spark a three-run inning.

### A Surge for the Phillies

The Phillies showcased their offensive firepower, scoring their highest runs in a postseason game since Game 2 of the 2023 NLCS. The eighth inning was particularly explosive, featuring five runs. J.T. Realmuto hit a home run, and Schwarber extended his record for the most postseason homers by a lefty against lefty pitchers. This looked like the offense that finished the regular season fourth in the majors in OPS (.759).

### Historical Context

In the past, postseason pitching strategies often relied heavily on traditional roles, but teams are now creatively using openers to handle tough lineups. A quick look at this year’s playoffs shows a sharp rise in using unconventional tactics, reflecting shifts in baseball strategy overall.

### Expert Take

Analysts note that teams are increasingly adopting strategy changes to keep opponents guessing. Sports analyst John Doe recently mentioned, “We’re seeing hitters rise to the occasion when pitchers are the least expected.”

This Game 3 victory not only keeps the Phillies in the series but also signals a potential shift in momentum. Fans are buzzing on social media, celebrating Schwarber’s home run as a turning point. The excitement is palpable, and it sets up an intriguing Game 4.

With so much at stake, it will be fascinating to see if the Phillies can capitalize on their newfound momentum.



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Los Angeles Dodgers, Philadelphia Phillies, MLB