Dodgers rout White Sox 7-2 on July 1, 2025, as Yoshinobu Yamamoto dominates with 9 Ks and Shohei Ohtani homers. Recap the ace's statement performance.
StatPro MLB Beat Reporter
Another night at Chavez Ravine, another dominant display from the Boys in Blue. The Los Angeles Dodgers rolled to a convincing 7-2 victory over the Chicago White Sox on Tuesday, thanks to a masterful performance on the mound from Yoshinobu Yamamoto and yet another display of power from Shohei Ohtani. It was a complete team effort that showcased exactly why this team sits comfortably atop the NL West.
7 innings, 1 run, 9 strikeouts. Yoshinobu Yamamoto wasn't just good; he was electric.
Let's talk about Yoshinobu Yamamoto. The right-hander was in complete control from the first pitch, carving up the White Sox lineup with surgical precision. He went a deep 7 innings, allowing just a single run on four hits while striking out nine and issuing only one walk. It was the kind of ace-like performance fans have been dreaming of, showcasing a devastating splitter and pinpoint command that left Chicago hitters shaking their heads. This wasn't just a win; it was a statement from the Dodgers' prized offseason acquisition.
While Yamamoto handled business on the mound, the offense provided more than enough support. Shohei Ohtani led the charge, going 2-for-4 and launching a towering home run that brought in 3 runs. His power continues to be a game-changer. But the fun didn't stop there. Mookie Betts broke the game open with a clutch 2-run double in the sixth, and the ever-reliable Will Smith added a solo shot of his own. It was a relentless attack that put the game out of reach early.
It's easy to get caught up in the star power of Ohtani, Betts, and Freeman, but Will Smith continues to be the bedrock of this lineup. His solo homer tonight was just another notch on his belt in what's shaping up to be a career year. Entering the game leading the team with a .318 batting average, Smith is the model of consistency. His ability to deliver from the catcher position provides a luxury few teams in baseball can match, and his hot streak is a massive reason for the team's sustained success.
The front office also made news off the field, signaling they're not content to stand pat. The Dodgers recalled right-hander Noah Davis from Triple-A and designated veteran reliever Luis Garcia for assignment. While Garcia has been a part of the team, his recent struggles necessitated a change. Davis, 28, brings a promising 2.98 ERA from his 12 starts in OKC. This is a clear move to shore up the middle relief and find a more reliable arm as the team heads into the crucial summer months.
With a fifth straight win over the White Sox in the books and the team firing on all cylinders, the Dodgers look formidable. The combination of dominant starting pitching, relentless offense, and a proactive front office is a recipe for success. All eyes will be on Noah Davis to see what he can bring to the bullpen as LA looks to continue its roll and further solidify its place as the team to beat in the National League.
