Dodgers Fall in Thriller Against Mets as Bullpen Struggles Continue
LOS ANGELES — In a dramatic showdown at Dodger Stadium on Monday night, June 2, 2025, the Los Angeles Dodgers were edged out by the New York Mets 4-3 in a tense 10-inning affair. Despite staging a late comeback, the Dodgers’ bullpen faltered, leaving the team in a precarious situation as they navigate an injury-riddled pitching staff.
Injured Closer Dilemma
The night proved particularly challenging for the Dodgers as they entered the game with five potential closers sidelined due to injuries. The only viable option, Tanner Scott, who has been struggling in high-pressure situations, exacerbated the team’s woes, allowing two runs in the 10th inning.
“A loss is a loss, but when you feel that you’ve done enough to win a game late and then to not come away with it, it stings a little more,” Dodgers manager Dave Roberts reflected post-game.
Bullpen Struggles Under Pressure
Scott’s performance has been a growing concern; this latest outing marks his second loss and third blown save over the last seven appearances. During this stretch, he has surrendered 12 runs across just six innings pitched, raising alarms about his effectiveness in high-leverage situations.
“Missed locations especially down in the zone against hitters that I’m supposed to be in different spots. I’m just not hitting my locations and it’s costing us,” Scott lamented after the game.
Scott’s repertoire, which relies predominantly on a fastball and slider, has faltered, particularly his fastball that was hit repeatedly by the Mets on this night. A mislocated fastball allowed Francisco Alvarez to lead off the 10th with a double, a crucial turning point in the game.
Mets Capitalize on Mistakes
As the game progressed into extra innings, Scott’s missteps allowed the Mets to establish an early advantage with two quick runs. Delivering a solid performance previously, Scott admitted, “It sucks right now. Last year, I relied on it a lot. This year, it’s getting hit.”
Replacing Scott in high-pressure scenarios may be a possibility, but the Dodgers’ bullpen currently consists of inexperienced arms with limited closing experience. Promising options like Evan Phillips, Blake Treinen, and Kirby Yates are all sidelined, while rookie pitchers like Ben Casparius and Jack Dreyer are being leaned on heavily.
Late-Inning Heroics and Frustration
Despite their bullpen issues, the Dodgers showed resilience by tying the game in the ninth inning. Tommy Edman initiated the rally with a lead-off single against Mets closer Edwin Diaz, stealing second base to put himself in scoring position. Hyeseong Kim then stepped up with a grounder, reaching safely due to Francisco Lindor’s brilliant yet ultimately futile diving stop.
With two runners on and Shohei Ohtani at the plate, the Dodgers managed to tie the game with Ohtani delivering a sacrifice fly that fell just short of being a second home run of the night, a near-miss yet pivotal moment that sent the game into extras.
Offensive Consistency Remains Elusive
After dominating previous games, the Dodgers’ offense has struggled significantly against the Mets’ pitching, managing only three hits off Paul Blackburn, marking their second consecutive game of sluggish offense. Roberts noted the trend, stating, “The common thread is you got guys that don’t throw the ball hard, that pitch backward, that use a breaking ball, changeup, cutter.”
Star slugger Shohei Ohtani had a muted night until the seventh inning when he launched a breathtaking 424-foot home run, his 23rd of the season, tying him for the lead in Major League Baseball. However, despite this moment of brilliance, the Dodgers’ bats were silent for much of the night.
Looking Ahead: Finding Solutions
With injuries compounding the pressure on the Dodgers’ pitching staff, the conversation shifts towards finding consistent performance from their younger pitchers and determining the best strategic utilization. Roberts emphasized the unpredictability of game scenarios when addressing the challenges of his bullpen.
“We have to pick matchups and see who’s throwing the baseball well. There’s not one particular closer right now,” Roberts remarked, alluding to the fluid situation within the bullpen.
As the Dodgers grapple with how to maintain competitiveness amid these setbacks, their performance on the field will be critical as they look to solidify their playoff aspirations while navigating these turbulent waters. The ability to confront these challenges will define their success as the season progresses.