Dodgers Edge Giants in Pivotal NL West Battle, Ohtani and Kershaw Shine

LOS ANGELES, CA – June 15, 2025 – The Los Angeles Dodgers reclaimed sole possession of first place in the National League West after a decisive 11-5 victory over the San Francisco Giants on Saturday at Dodger Stadium. Shohei Ohtani powered the Dodgers’ offense with two home runs, while veteran left-hander Clayton Kershaw delivered seven scoreless innings to anchor the win.

The weekend series, a crucial matchup between two longtime rivals, began with the Giants pulling even atop the division standings on Friday night. San Francisco took the series opener 6-2, capitalizing on a rough outing from Dodgers starter Yoshinobu Yamamoto, who surrendered five runs over 4.2 innings. The Dodgers, battling a depleted pitching staff due to injuries, received encouraging news as right-hander Emmet Sheehan nears a return from Tommy John surgery and could soon bolster the rotation.

Saturday’s game saw the Dodgers’ bats come alive, with Ohtani’s two homers igniting an offensive surge. Kershaw, making his return to the mound, dominated the Giants’ lineup and provided much-needed stability for Los Angeles. The win improved the Dodgers’ record to 41-28, putting them two games ahead of the Giants, who now stand at 41-31 in the NL West standings.

Off the field, the Dodgers honored reliever Joe Kelly with his 2024 World Series ring in a pregame ceremony and celebrated Father’s Day weekend with special activities for fans.

Shohei Ohtani, who has yet to pitch for the Dodgers this season, continues to progress in his throwing program, recently tossing 44 pitches over three simulated innings. His anticipated return to the mound could provide a significant boost as the Dodgers look to solidify their lead in the division.

The series concludes Sunday, with the Dodgers aiming to extend their lead and the Giants seeking to close the gap in the heated NL West race.