The Los Angeles Dodgers got the better of the San Diego Padres for a second consecutive day, coming away with a 4-1 win at Camelback Ranch in their home opener of 2024 Spring Training.
Mangaer Dave Roberts was hopeful to see Landon Knack build on the team’s strong pitching performance from their first Cactus League game, and the Dodgers’ prospect did not disappoint.
Knack recorded four strikeouts and got through two perfect innings.
He was provided an early lead thanks to Freddie Freeman connecting on an opposite-field home run in the bottom of the first inning. Freeman’s big swing came on the first pitch he saw in Cactus League play and later came a sacrifice fly.
First pitch Freddie sees? Homer. pic.twitter.com/LH5R5QVS2w
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) February 23, 2024
Two shutout innings with 4 Ks for Landon! pic.twitter.com/OKJRS8xRLn
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) February 23, 2024
Miguel Vargas looking comfortable in LF.
pic.twitter.com/JieBfWrUtz
— SportsNet LA (@SportsNetLA) February 23, 2024
Freeman plans to take Saturday off before returning to the Dodgers lineup for their next three games.
Meanwhile, Knack’s pitching effort was backed by a deep bullpen. Gus Varland allowed a run but the Dodgers otherwise kept the Padres off the board.
Sandwiched between Freeman driving runs in was a Dalton Rushing sacrifice fly, and Chris Okey added an RBI base hit in the seventh inning to create some separation.
Miguel Vargas showed early returns in his adjustment to playing left field full time by coming on for a sliding catch.
Next for the Dodgers is game against the Los Angeles Angels at Tempe Diablo Stadium. Tyler Glasnow is taking the mound for his Dodgers debut.
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