How Kerkering’s Error Set the Stage for the Dodgers’ NLCS Victory

LOS ANGELES — In a tense moment during the 11th inning, Orion Kerkering made a crucial mistake. Instead of tossing the ball to first base after mishandling Andy Pages’ comebacker, he threw wild, allowing pinch-runner Hyeseong Kim to score. This wild throw led the Los Angeles Dodgers to a 2-1 victory against the Philadelphia Phillies, securing their spot in the NL Championship Series.

The crowd of 50,563 at Dodger Stadium erupted with excitement. Fans had been on their feet for the final three innings, eagerly anticipating a win. Even after the play, Phillies manager Rob Thomson comforted Kerkering, showing support for the young reliever as he struggled to cope with the moment.

In the seventh inning, Nick Castellanos had previously given the Phillies a brief lead with an RBI double. However, the Dodgers quickly equalized when Jhoan Duran walked Mookie Betts with the bases loaded.

In the 11th, after Tommy Edman and Max Muncy got on base, Kerkering faced a pressure-packed situation. He walked Kiké Hernández, loading the bases again. Pages, who had struggled this postseason with just one hit in his last 23 at-bats, hit a grounder that should have been an easy out—something every pitcher practices regularly.

This loss marked a tough end for the Phillies, who have now exited the Division Series for three consecutive years. On the other hand, the Dodgers advanced to the NL Championship Series for the eighth time in 13 years. This win was notable, being the third walk-off victory to clinch a playoff series in Dodgers history.

Looking back, this match mirrors past playoff moments, highlighting the intense pressure players face. In 1978, the Dodgers also clutched a decisive win against the Phillies to advance—showing that high-stakes moments can define careers and seasons.

As the Dodgers prepare for their next challenge, either against the Chicago Cubs or the Milwaukee Brewers, anticipation is palpable. Each game brings new hopes and the chance for redemption after mistakes.

This game also reminds us how quickly fortunes can shift in sports—a lesson that resonates with fans and players alike across the leagues.

For more insights into the Dodgers’ playoff history, you can check out this ESPN article.

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