Dodgers Advance to World Series Behind Shohei Ohtani and Tommy Edman’s Heroics

The Los Angeles Dodgers, powered by Shohei Ohtani and midseason acquisition Tommy Edman, have secured their spot in the World Series, defeating the New York Mets 10-5 in Game 6 of the NL Championship Series. Despite battling injuries throughout the season, the Dodgers finished with the best regular-season record, showcasing their determination and resilience as they aim for their eighth World Series title.

Edman’s Arrival and Ohtani’s Impact
Tommy Edman, who joined the Dodgers in late July, played a pivotal role in the team’s postseason success. His two-run homer in Game 6 helped propel the Dodgers to the World Series. Edman’s timely hitting and strong defense earned him the NLCS MVP award, tying a franchise record for RBIs in a series. His arrival from the St. Louis Cardinals at the trade deadline provided much-needed support to a roster already driven by the stellar performance of Shohei Ohtani.

Ohtani, in his first season with the Dodgers after signing a record-breaking $700 million, 10-year contract, has been a game-changer. In Game 6, he had two hits, scored two runs, and posted a .364 batting average with two homers and six RBIs throughout the NLCS.

“I feel like we finally arrived, and I finally arrived at this stage,” Ohtani said through a translator. “It was a tough journey, but this team effort got us here.”

Dodgers Clinch NL Pennant
The Dodgers claimed their 25th National League pennant, their fourth in eight years. This marks their first appearance in the World Series since 2020, when they won in the pandemic-shortened season. Los Angeles will face the New York Yankees, marking the 12th time the two historic franchises meet in the Fall Classic, with the last being in 1981.

Excitement is building for this highly anticipated matchup. “It’s kind of what the people wanted, what we all wanted,” Dodgers star Mookie Betts said. “It’s going to be a battle of two good teams, many long flights across the country.” The Yankees, led by Aaron Judge, are back in the World Series for the first time in 15 years, setting up a showdown between the league’s top two home-run hitters: Judge (58) and Ohtani (54).

Edman and Smith Seal the Deal
Edman’s clutch performances throughout the series were critical, particularly his two-run homer and two-run double in Game 6, which gave the Dodgers a lead they never relinquished. Will Smith added to the offensive explosion with a 416-foot homer, helping to solidify the Dodgers’ dominance.

“I never imagined once we acquired him, he’d be hitting fourth in a postseason game,” Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said of Edman. “But I trust him. He’s made huge plays for us.”

Dodgers Overcome Injuries and Mets
Despite a season riddled with injuries, the Dodgers outplayed the Mets, who had the highest payroll in MLB. Los Angeles used seven pitchers in Game 6, reflecting the challenges they faced with their starting rotation. Standout performances from rookie Ben Casparius and veteran Blake Treinen, who made key pitches under pressure, helped secure the win.

The Mets, who rallied from a rough 22-33 start, missed crucial opportunities in Game 6, stranding the bases loaded twice. Despite their loss, Mets manager Carlos Mendoza expressed optimism, saying, “This should be our expectations moving forward every year; we should be playing games deep into October.”

Ohtani’s First World Series
For Shohei Ohtani, reaching the World Series is a dream come true. After six years with the Angels without a playoff appearance, he has found success with the Dodgers.

“I’ve dreamt of playing on this stage my entire life,” Ohtani said. “Now, the next goal is to win it.”

With the Dodgers focused on winning their first title since 2020, the star-studded matchup between the Dodgers and Yankees promises to be a thrilling battle.

Trainer’s Room
Dodgers’ first baseman Freddie Freeman sat out Game 6 with a sprained ankle, marking his third missed game of the postseason.

As the Dodgers prepare to host Game 1 of the World Series, fans and celebrities alike are eager for what is shaping up to be a memorable series.