Kiké Hernández's clutch homer and a pitching gem led the Dodgers to a 2-0 shutout win over the Royals on June 29, 2025, clinching the series. See how they did it.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
In a tense pitcher's duel at Kauffman Stadium, it was a familiar hero who played the leading role. Enrique Hernández blasted a decisive two-run home run, providing all the offense the Dodgers would need in a masterful 2-0 shutout victory over the Kansas City Royals to clinch the series.
The Dodgers rank first in MLB in runs per game (5.6), batting average (.263), on-base percentage (.338), slugging (.461), and home runs (130).
When the Dodgers needed a spark, Enrique Hernández delivered the fireworks. His two-run homer was the singular offensive highlight in a game dominated by pitching, breaking the scoreless tie and silencing the Kansas City crowd. It was a classic Kiké moment, coming up big when it mattered most. While Hernández provided the power, Will Smith was a model of consistency, reaching base frequently and posting a .500 average for the day, continuing his stellar season.
The offense may have been quiet, but the pitching staff was absolutely electric. A combined shutout on the road is no small feat, and it speaks volumes about the quality of arms throughout this roster. The entire staff executed flawlessly, keeping the Royals off balance and off the scoreboard to secure the hard-fought win and the series victory.
This dominant pitching performance is even more impressive considering the challenges the bullpen is facing. The news that closer Evan Phillips will miss the rest of the season after Tommy John surgery was a major blow. However, there's a light at the end of the tunnel, with Brusdar Graterol reportedly resuming his throwing program and targeting a potential August rehab assignment. His return would be a massive boost for the stretch run. The team has also seen Luis García return from the IL, a move that added another veteran arm to the mix.
This series win pushes the Dodgers' record to a stellar 52-32, keeping them firmly in the driver's seat of the NL West. The victory was a microcosm of their season: finding a way to win, whether it's an offensive explosion or a 2-0 grinder. Their dominance is reflected in the league leaderboards, where they sit atop MLB in nearly every major offensive category, from runs scored to home runs. Paired with solid defense and a resilient pitching staff, it's clear why the Dodgers remain the benchmark for success in 2025.
As the Dodgers wrap up their road trip, they do so with another series win under their belt. They've proven they can win with power, with pitching, and with grit. While the injury bug has taken a bite out of the bullpen, the 'next man up' mentality is shining through. With Graterol's return on the horizon and the offense firing on all cylinders, the Dodgers are in an enviable position as they head into the heat of the summer.
