Overview
- The Dodgers beat the Seattle Mariners 6-2 to clinch the three-game series on Thursday, getting early runs from Mookie Betts and a three-run homer from Dalton Rushing.
- Roki Sasaki worked 5 1/3 innings, allowed two runs, struck out seven and lowered his season ERA as part of a multi-start run of strong outings since the All-Star break.
- Reporters and team officials point to a larger glove, cleaned-up lower-body mechanics and an uptick in fastball velocity as the main reasons his splitter has become a reliable out pitch.
- Seattle shifted its rotation for the finale by sending Bryan Woo out on short rest, a move that produced early trouble for the Mariners and highlighted their pitching workload issues on the road.
- The win extends Los Angeles’ post–All-Star momentum and gives the Dodgers a sturdier October plan, with Sasaki’s development adding a possible high-leverage or long-relief option as the trade deadline approaches.