Originally published by DodgerBlue.com
The Los Angeles Dodgers failed to generate any momentum from scoring 14 runs as they mustered just four hits in a 2-1 loss to the L.A. Angels. The Dodgers lost a three-game Freeway Series matchup for the first time since June 2012.
They are without a series win since taking one from the San Diego Padres at Petco Park (April 16-18) and have yet to win back-to-back games since that same weekend set. Moreover, the Dodgers are 4-10 in one-run games this season.
Their latest defeat didn’t come without its share of chances as the Dodgers tied a season high with nine walks and had at least one baserunner in eight of nine innings. “We got a lot of guys on base, we just didn’t get a couple hits in good situations,” manager Dave Roberts said.
“We took nine walks, at-bat quality was really good, but you’ve got to get that hit or a couple hits. They got a big hit with two outs. I wouldn’t even say it was a mistake from Trevor that was the difference in the ballgame.
“Honestly, I think things are turning. I really do. It’s easy to look at the result — we put up one run — but I just think the body of work the last few days has been a lot better. … I think if you look at the at-bat quality, Justin barreled some balls and didn’t have anything to show for that, we took a bunch of walks, got the starter out of there after four-plus.
“That’s a pretty positive start to the day as far as momentum. We certainly didn’t tack on when we had guys in scoring position, but I think if you look back the last 17, 18 days, there was a lot more empty at-bats than we’ve seen the last couple games.”
Dodgers at-bat quality remains focal point
L.A. excelled in situational hitting, particularly with two outs, during the postseason, but haven’t carried that into this season. For Roberts, the importance remains on approach.
“I just think we’ve got to continue to take the quality at-bat and square the baseball up,” he said. I thought Gavin had a couple chances, hit the ball hard and didn’t have anything to show for it. You look at the left on base, it’s real. But we’re going to reset.”
Have you subscribed to the Dodger Blue YouTube channel? It’s the best way to watch player interviews, participate in our shows and giveaways, and more!