Giants Stun Dodgers in Game 1, Tie for NL West Lead

The San Francisco Giants and Los Angeles Dodgers are renewing their storied rivalry in a crucial mid-June 2025 series with first place in the NL West on the line. In the series opener at Dodger Stadium, the Giants made a statement with a convincing victory, adding another dramatic chapter to the Giants-Dodgers feud. Below, we break down Game 1, explore the historical rivalry, analyze both teams’ rosters and season trends, and discuss how the Giants can keep their edge. Finally, we’ll predict which team is likely to emerge victorious in this high-stakes series.

Game 1: Giants Strike First in Los Angeles

The series opened on June 13, 2025, with the Giants riding a powerful performance to a 6-2 win over the Dodgers. San Francisco jumped out early when Willy Adames belted a solo home run in the top of the first inning, giving the Giants a 1-0 lead. Los Angeles answered without even recording a hit – capitalizing on two walks, a groundout, and a sacrifice fly by rookie Andy Pages to tie the game 1-1 in the second inning (a dropped ball on the tag at home allowed the run to score). The real fireworks came in the third inning. Dodgers’ star pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto, struggling with his command, loaded the bases on three walks before Giants infielder Casey Schmitt came up with two outs. Schmitt crushed a low splitter for his first career grand slam, a 423-foot blast to left-center that broke the tie and put San Francisco up 5-1. That swing proved to be the knockout blow, energizing the Giants dugout and silencing the Dodger Stadium crowd.

On the mound, Giants ace Logan Webb delivered a dominant performance. Webb took a no-hitter into the fourth inning and finished with seven innings of two-hit ball, allowing just two runs. Both hits he gave up came off the bat of Teoscar Hernández – a single in the fourth and a solo home run in the seventh (Hernández’s 12th of the year). Webb struck out four and walked three, twice fanning the dangerous Shohei Ohtani and holding Ohtani hitless in four at-bats. After Hernández’s homer cut the Dodgers’ deficit to 5-2, the Giants answered right back in the eighth with catcher Andrew Knizner’s first hit and first home run of the season, restoring a four-run cushion. The San Francisco bullpen then sealed the win with two hitless innings from Tyler Rogers and Ryan Walker.

For Los Angeles, Yamamoto’s rare off-night was the story. The 26-year-old Japanese right-hander came into the game with a sparkling 2.20 ERA, but in this outing he surrendered five walks and two homers in just 4⅔ innings. The usually pinpoint Yamamoto was squeezed by a tight strike zone at times, but even Dodgers manager Dave Roberts admitted the issue was that his pitcher tried to be “too fine” with his pitches instead of attacking the zone. It was Yamamoto’s second rough start in a row, and the season-high five walks set up his own undoing. A bright spot for L.A. was rookie reliever Justin Wrobleski, who came in to eat 4⅓ innings in relief and yielded just one run (Knizner’s homer) – a performance that saved the rest of the Dodger bullpen from work. Nonetheless, by the end of the night the Giants had pulled into a tie with the Dodgers atop the NL West, both teams sitting at 41-29 after 70 games. It was an emphatic opening salvo by San Francisco in enemy territory.

A Historic Rivalry Reignited

The Dodgers–Giants rivalry is one of baseball’s oldest and fiercest, dating all the way back to the late 19th century when both franchises were based in New York City. After the 1957 season, the teams famously moved west in tandem – the Dodgers to Los Angeles and the Giants to San Francisco – transplanting their rivalry to California and fueling a natural NorCal vs. SoCal feud. Over the decades, this rivalry has produced countless memorable moments and intense pennant races. From Bobby Thomson’s famous “Shot Heard ’Round the World” in 1951, to bench-clearing brawls, to dramatic playoff showdowns, Giants vs. Dodgers is often electric. Significantly, these two clubs have almost identical all-time records against each other over more than 2,500 meetings – a testament to how evenly matched they’ve been historically (the Giants hold a razor-thin edge in the all-time series at 1,286–1,282 as of their last meeting in 2024).

Both franchises are storied winners. The Dodgers have claimed 25 National League pennants and the Giants 23 – the top two totals for any NL team. Each team has won 8 World Series championships in their history. Since moving to California, however, Los Angeles has generally had the upper hand within the division. Since the start of divisional play in 1969, the Dodgers have won the NL West 22 times, compared to 9 times for the Giants. In the 2010s and early 2020s, the Dodgers became a perennial powerhouse, while the Giants, despite winning three World Series titles in 2010-2014, often found themselves chasing L.A. in the division. In 2021, the two rivals pushed each other to historic heights (107 wins for SF vs 106 for LA) and finally met in the postseason for the first time – a dramatic NL Division Series that the Dodgers narrowly won 3–2. More recently, Los Angeles has dominated the head-to-head matchups; for instance, in 2024 the Dodgers went 9-4 against San Francisco (including 6-1 at Dodger Stadium).

All of this backdrop makes the June 2025 series even more compelling. The Giants endured several frustrating offseasons chasing big stars who got away – they missed out on Bryce Harper, saw Aaron Judge stay in New York, had a deal with Carlos Correa fall apart, and watched Shohei Ohtani spurn them in favor of the rival Dodgers. Ohtani signing with Los Angeles this past winter added fuel to the rivalry’s fire, essentially “twisting the knife” for Giants fans. Now the Giants have a chance to challenge the Dodgers’ supremacy on the field. It’s the latest the two teams have met for the first time in a season since 1999 (no games against each other until mid-June), and the timing couldn’t be better: the old rivals are neck-and-neck for the division lead. The atmosphere at Dodger Stadium for Game 1 reflected that intensity, and the remaining games promise more of the same. When these teams clash, records and standings often feel secondary to the rivalry itself – but in this case, first place is directly at stake, making it a truly marquee matchup.

San Francisco Giants in 2025: Roster, Performance Trends, and Strategy

After a mediocre 2023 campaign, the Giants underwent significant changes to reshape their roster and leadership. Longtime Giants catcher Buster Posey took over as President of Baseball Operations, and Bob Melvin (a seasoned, three-time Manager of the Year) was hired as the new manager for 2024. Under this new direction, San Francisco made several key player acquisitions prior to the 2025 season. They signed Gold Glove third baseman Matt Chapman and solid shortstop Willy Adames, fortifying the left side of their infield. They also made a splash in the international market by inking Korean star outfielder Jung Hoo Lee to a six-year deal. Lee, known as the “Grandson of the Wind” for his elite contact skills and speed, has quickly become a fan favorite and a catalyst atop the lineup. (He overcame an injury-shortened 2024 and started 2025 red-hot – hitting .348 with power in the first few weeks.) These additions, along with the emergence of young players like Heliot Ramos and the steady presence of veterans like Wilmer Flores, have transformed the Giants’ offense into a deeper, more balanced unit than in years past.

Crucially, San Francisco’s improvements have translated to success on the field. Coming into this Dodgers series, the Giants were 7-3 in their last 10 games and had won four straight series. They’ve exceeded many preseason expectations and are firmly in the NL West race. On June 13, the Giants were 40-29, just one game back of Los Angeles – a far better position than most pundits predicted. The team’s run differential (+48) was among the NL’s best, reflecting strength in both scoring and preventing runs. Offensively, the Giants have shown unusual balance and power. In fact, a month prior, a radio host noted that five different Giants hitters were on pace for 80+ RBIs this season – a surprising stat for a lineup once questioned for its run-producing ability. By mid-June, Matt Chapman led the team with 12 home runs, and Flores and Ramos had 11 each, indicating multiple players contributing with pop. The Giants ranked in the top 10 in MLB in runs scored through the first 70 games, a testament to that balanced production. This is a notable change for a franchise that hadn’t had a single 30-homer hitter since Barry Bonds; rather than a lone superstar slugger, they now rely on depth and situational hitting to generate offense.

On the pitching side, San Francisco’s starting rotation has been a strength. Homegrown ace Logan Webb continues to be one of the league’s most reliable arms, logging a 2.58 ERA over 87.1 innings so far and frequently working deep into games. The Giants bolstered the rotation by acquiring veteran left-hander Robbie Ray, who has been stellar with an 8-1 record and 2.55 ERA, leading the staff in Wins Above Replacement (2.0 WAR). Beyond those two, the team has successfully integrated young pitchers like Landen Roupp (4-4, 3.29 ERA) and Hayden Birdsong into starting roles, and they recently welcomed back John Brebbia (or another arm) to provide depth. The bullpen features flame-throwing closer Camilo Doval and a mix of reliable relievers. In Game 1, for instance, sidearmer Tyler Rogers and rookie Ryan Walker slammed the door with hitless frames. Under Bob Melvin’s steady management, the Giants have shown a knack for using their entire roster – platooning where appropriate, matching up bullpen arms effectively, and playing solid defense (Chapman and Adames have noticeably improved the infield defense up the middle). In short, this Giants squad is well-rounded and riding a wave of momentum into the summer.

Strengths

Balanced Offensive Attack: The Giants do not rely on just one or two stars to carry the offense. As of May, five players were on pace to drive in 80+ runs (including Wilmer Flores, Jung Hoo Lee, Matt Chapman, Heliot Ramos, and Willy Adames). Several hitters are providing power – for example, Chapman (12 HR), Flores (11), and Ramos (11) all have double-digit homers by mid-June. This depth makes the lineup tough to contain, as San Francisco can score in many ways and different guys can be the hero on any given night.
Starting Pitching Excellence: The top of the rotation is formidable. Logan Webb is among the most consistent pitchers in baseball – carrying a 2.58 ERA through 87+ innings – and he delivered another gem in Game 1. Veteran lefty Robbie Ray has been a revelation (8-1 record, 2.55 ERA) and actually led the staff in WAR at the time of this series. When Webb and Ray pitch, the Giants have a great chance to win, and they set a competitive tone. Additionally, young arms like Roupp and Birdsong have held their own, giving the rotation depth.
Improved Defense and Fundamentals: The addition of Matt Chapman (3B) and Willy Adames (SS) means the Giants have two premier defenders on the left side of the infield (Chapman is a multiple Gold Glove winner). They’ve also gotten strong defense in center from Jung Hoo Lee, who covers a ton of ground. This solid glove work helps the pitching staff tremendously. The team has also been generally sound fundamentally under Bob Melvin. (Notably, in Game 1 they turned a key double play to squelch a Dodgers threat.)
Bullpen Reliability: San Francisco’s bullpen might not have big-name closers (aside from emerging star Camilo Doval), but it has been effective. In the series opener, Tyler Rogers and Ryan Walker each worked a clean inning to preserve the win. Doval has electric stuff in the ninth inning, and veterans like Taylor Rogers (Tyler’s twin) and Scott Alexander add experience. The relief corps’ performance has quietly been a big reason the Giants are 12 games over .500.
Experienced Leadership and Intangibles: Manager Bob Melvin brings a wealth of experience managing in pennant races, which helps in making strategic decisions (platoon advantages, bullpen matchups, etc.). Moreover, Buster Posey’s presence in the front office and as a revered former player gives the clubhouse and organization a clear vision of winning culture. The team’s confidence is growing; they’ve been one of the hottest teams, winning multiple series in a row, so morale and camaraderie are strengths that don’t show up on the stat sheet.

Weaknesses

Inconsistent Production from Key Spots: Not every new acquisition has thrived yet. Shortstop Willy Adames in particular has struggled at the plate, batting only about .204 with a .607 OPS through mid-June. His slow start has left a bit of a void in the lineup (though he did homer in Game 1). If Adames and a few others (like catcher Patrick Bailey or outfielder Mike Yastrzemski, who’s been in a reduced role) are not producing, the offense can occasionally go quiet. The Giants have had games where they rely too heavily on a couple of bats; if their usual balance falters, runs can be hard to come by.
Road Performance and Youth Under Pressure: The Giants have been mediocre on the road, just 18-18 in away games so far. Winning in Dodger Stadium against a tough opponent is a significant challenge — Game 1 was a big step, but sustaining that is hard. Some of the Giants’ contributors are young or relatively untested in high-pressure pennant race atmospheres (e.g. rookies like Ramos, Walker, or even Jung Hoo Lee in his first MLB year). There’s a risk that under the bright lights of Dodger Stadium in a rivalry showdown, inexperience could lead to mistakes or nerves in the next games.
Back of the Rotation Questions: While Webb and Ray are a strong 1-2 punch, the rest of the rotation isn’t as proven. They’re relying on Landen Roupp, a rookie with only a few months of MLB experience, to start Game 2, and likely another young arm in Game 3 (unless they shuffle the rotation). Those pitchers have performed well, but Dodger lineups can punish even slight mistakes. There’s less certainty that the Giants can get a quality start from those slots. If a young starter falters early, it could tax the bullpen heavily. Depth could become an issue if any game goes into extra innings or if multiple relievers get overused.
Lack of a True Superstar Bat: While the balanced, all-hands-on-deck approach is a strength, one could also view the absence of a singular feared slugger as a weakness. The Dodgers have Ohtani, Betts, and Freeman – MVP-caliber talents. The Giants have very good players (Chapman, Flores, Lee) but none at that MVP superstar level (at least not yet, unless Lee’s star continues to rise). In a tight late-game situation, the Giants don’t have a proven elite hitter that every opposing pitcher fears. This can matter in playoff-type games where one swing from a superstar can change a series. The hope is that someone like Chapman or Lee can rise to that occasion, but it remains a question.
Occasional Miscues: The Giants have generally been solid fundamentally, but we saw in game action that they aren’t immune to mistakes. For example, in Game 1 Heliot Ramos ran through a stop sign at third and was tagged out at home plate, squandering a chance to add on runs. There was also a dropped catch at the plate by Knizner that gave L.A. a run. Little lapses like these can be costly in a close game. San Francisco will need to tighten up any lapse in focus because the Dodgers are adept at exploiting opponents’ mistakes.

Los Angeles Dodgers in 2025: Roster, Performance Trends, and Strategy

The Dodgers entered 2025 as the team to beat not only in the NL West but arguably in the entire National League. After a 100-win 2024 season (though ending in playoff disappointment), Los Angeles reloaded and retooled in the offseason. Their biggest move was signing two-way megastar Shohei Ohtani as a free agent, adding an MVP-caliber bat (and future ace arm, once he’s fully recovered from elbow surgery) to an already star-studded roster. They also made a splash by winning the bidding for Japan’s top pitcher, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, to bolster a rotation that saw some departures and injuries. With franchise cornerstones Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman still anchoring the lineup, and talented youth coming up from their farm system, the Dodgers on paper looked as formidable as ever.

For much of the first half, Los Angeles lived up to expectations. Coming into the Giants series, the Dodgers were 41-28 and in first place, with a +68 run differential (one of the best in MLB). At Dodger Stadium they’ve been especially dominant, posting a 23-11 home record by mid-June. The offense has been led by none other than Shohei Ohtani, who has been nothing short of spectacular in his Dodgers debut. In the first 67 games, Ohtani compiled 23 home runs (leading the NL), an OPS over 1.000, 5 triples, 11 steals, and a 3.2 WAR – showing off his blend of power and speed. Even wearing a new uniform, he’s been the same dynamic force that won AL MVP in 2021 and 2023. Surrounding Ohtani, the Dodgers lineup is deep: Freddie Freeman provides high average and doubles, Mookie Betts brings power and versatility (even playing some second base), and younger players like Andy Pages (who earned a starting outfield role) and veteran pickup Teoscar Hernández have added pop (both Pages and Hernández are in double-digit homers). One through nine, this lineup can grind down pitchers — eight different Dodgers have 30+ RBIs already this season, a sign of distributed contributions.

However, L.A. has hit some turbulence of late. As of this series kickoff, the Dodgers had lost 7 of their last 12 games, allowing their division lead to dwindle. The potent offense cooled off in early June – the “big bats” at the top of the order (Betts, Freeman, etc.) were collectively batting just .242 in the month leading into the Giants series. Manager Dave Roberts even shuffled the lineup, dropping slumping slugger Max Muncy lower in the batting order and moving newcomer Tommy Edman (acquired to provide speed/defense) into the two-hole at times. Edman, a switch-hitting utility man picked up from St. Louis, has helped the defense (his spectacular diving play at second base in Game 1 saved a run) and gives the Dodgers another base-stealing threat. Still, the recent offensive inconsistency has put more pressure on the pitching staff.

On the mound, the Dodgers’ pitching staff has been beset by injuries again in 2025. Three-time Cy Young winner Clayton Kershaw missed several weeks with an elbow issue (he just returned in June). Young flame-thrower Dustin May is out following surgery, and ace Evan Williams is still rehabbing from Tommy John surgery and has yet to pitch this season. Julio Urías departed after off-field issues, and Tony Gonsolin has been inconsistent and in and out of the lineup. To compensate, Los Angeles has leaned on a mix of newcomers and youth. Yoshinobu Yamamoto has been as advertised for most of the year – before the Giants game, he sported a 2.20 ERA over 73.2 innings with a team-best 2.1 WAR, establishing himself as an ace in his first MLB season. Another bright spot has been rookie Bobby Miller (a top prospect who debuted in 2024), who has held a rotation spot and shown flashes of brilliance with his high-90s sinker. The Dodgers’ bullpen, which lost some veterans, has discovered a couple of reliable new arms: Ben Casparius and Jack Dreyer, two young pitchers, have combined for nearly 80 innings of solid relief work with ERAs in the 2.80s. They join steady relievers like Evan Phillips, Brusdar Graterol, and Caleb Ferguson to form a bullpen that has been better than some expected.

All told, the Dodgers remain an elite team, but one with a few more vulnerabilities than in past years. Their formula in 2025 has been to ride their superstar (Ohtani) and the depth of their lineup, get enough strong outings from their patched-together rotation, and close the back end of games with a mix-and-match bullpen. They are also fueled by tremendous organizational depth – few teams can weather injuries like L.A. because of the pipeline of talent they continuously produce. As this series continues, Los Angeles will look to prove that their recent skid was just a blip and that they can outlast the upstart Giants.

Strengths

Star Power and MVP Performances: The Dodgers have multiple elite players who can single-handedly change a game. Shohei Ohtani is having an MVP-caliber season, leading the National League with 23 home runs and posting an OPS above 1.000 by mid-June. He’s also leading the team in runs scored and even stolen bases, showcasing a rare all-around game. Alongside Ohtani, Mookie Betts (a former MVP who provides power, defense, and versatility) and Freddie Freeman (an MVP in 2020 and perennial .300 hitter) give L.A. star hitters with championship pedigrees. This trio is as good as any in baseball; when they are clicking, the Dodger offense is extremely hard to contain.
Deep and Balanced Lineup: Even beyond the big names, Los Angeles can rely on contributions from everywhere in the batting order. In fact, eight different Dodgers have 30 or more RBIs already, indicating that production is spread out. Young players like Andy Pages have stepped up with timely hitting (Pages has shown power with a handful of home runs and was driving in runs with sacrifice flies and situational hitting as seen in Game 1). Veteran Teoscar Hernández (12 HR) provides another power bat in the middle of the lineup. Will Smith is one of the better hitting catchers in MLB. Even role players off the bench – e.g. Chris Taylor or David Peralta – have significant experience and can contribute in spots. This depth means the Dodgers rarely have an easy out in their lineup.
Home Field Advantage: The Dodgers excel at home in Chavez Ravine. They currently boast a 23-11 home record, one of the best home marks in the NL. Dodger Stadium’s crowd and comfort seem to give this team a boost – the offense tends to put up big numbers in familiar confines, and the pitching staff knows how to exploit the park’s dimensions (for instance, the thick evening air that can knock down fly balls). If any team can feed off its crowd’s energy in a rivalry series, it’s the Dodgers, who are used to drawing 50,000 passionate fans nightly.
Top-of-Rotation Talent: Despite injuries, Los Angeles has frontline pitching they trust. Yoshinobu Yamamoto has been one of the best pitchers in the league so far, entering the series with a 6-4 record and 2.20 ERA (although the Giants got to him in Game 1). He has swing-and-miss stuff and usually impeccable control, making him a threat to dominate any lineup. Clayton Kershaw, while 37 and coming off an injury, is a future Hall of Famer who still knows how to win big games. He’ll start Game 2 and has looked healthy, bringing a 4.35 ERA and all his savvy to the mound. If this series goes to a decisive game, the Dodgers might even consider bringing back Yamamoto on short rest or leaning on an opener strategy – but either way, they have proven arms to call on.
Emerging Bullpen Strength: One underrated strength for L.A. has been the performance of some unheralded bullpen arms this year. Right-handers Ben Casparius and Jack Dreyer were relatively unknown names, but together they’ve provided nearly 80 innings of quality relief, each with an ERA around 2.8 and contributing a combined 1.3 WAR out of the bullpen. They complement a bullpen that already has high-octane arms like Brusdar Graterol and setup man Evan Phillips (who was excellent in 2023 and continues to be reliable). In Game 1, when Yamamoto faltered, the bullpen (especially Wrobleski’s long relief) kept the game from getting out of hand. The Dodgers trust their depth – they won’t hesitate to go to the ‘pen if a starter struggles, knowing they have the personnel to cover innings.
Championship Experience and Resilience: The core of this Dodgers team has extensive postseason experience and a track record of success. They won the World Series in 2020 and have been in the playoffs every year for a decade. That experience breeds resilience. They are used to high-pressure games and hostile environments. Players like Betts, Freeman, Kershaw, and Justin Turner (who left after 2022 but their leadership culture remains) set a tone in the clubhouse that no moment is too big. After losing Game 1, you can be sure the Dodgers will come out focused and unpanicked in the remaining games – they’ve been in this position many times before. Their confidence as a perennial contender is a strength; they expect to win every series.

Weaknesses

Injury-Depleted Rotation: The Dodgers’ starting pitching depth is being tested. With multiple key starters injured or absent, the team’s rotation isn’t as imposing as in years past. Kershaw is just coming back from the injured list and might not be fully stretched out yet. Evan Phillips has not pitched yet in 2025 since his injury (still rehabbing), and Dustin May is out long-term. That leaves a lot of pressure on Yamamoto and the youngsters. As we saw in Game 1, if their ace Yamamoto has an off-night, the rotation can suddenly look vulnerable. Consistency is a concern – for example, Yamamoto’s ERA has ticked up each month (from 1.06 in April to over 5 in June so far) as he adjusts to the MLB schedule. The lack of rotation depth could force the Dodgers into using bullpen games or unproven starters, which is not ideal against a strong opponent like San Francisco.
Over-reliance on Ohtani (and a Few Others): While the Dodgers do have a balanced lineup, one cannot ignore that Shohei Ohtani has been carrying a lot of the offensive load. He leads the team in homers by a wide margin (no one else has more than 12). If the Giants find ways to neutralize Ohtani – as Webb did in Game 1, holding him 0-for-4 – the Dodgers’ run production can dip significantly. Similarly, Freddie Freeman, though an on-base machine, hasn’t hit for as much power this year (single-digit homers so far) and Mookie Betts was in a bit of a slump to start June. In fact, aside from Ohtani, only Pages and Hernández had cracked double-digit home runs by this point. This means the Dodgers might lack the usual thunder from guys like Muncy or Betts if they’re not in top form. The lineup is still very good, but if Ohtani has a quiet game, L.A. sometimes struggles to score in bunches.
Recent Slumps and Offensive Lulls: As mentioned, the Dodgers’ offense has shown some inconsistency lately. They’ve lost 7 of 12 games, largely because the bats went cold in several of those losses. In the opener against the Giants, the top of the order went hitless and the team managed only two hits total (both by Teoscar Hernández). Key hitters like Muncy and Will Smith have seen their averages dip in recent weeks. The team batting average and slugging in June were down from their usual standards. If that slump continues, it’s a clear weakness – the Dodgers can’t always count on pitching alone, especially with the pitching injuries. They need their offense to wake up. Until it does, a good pitching team like the Giants can exploit this weakness.
Bullpen Workload and Inexperience: While the bullpen has been a pleasant surprise, there is a flip side: if the Dodgers starters don’t go deep, the relief corps could get overworked. Yamamoto’s early exit in Game 1 meant L.A.’s bullpen had to cover 4+ innings (Wrobleski did so admirably). In a stretch of games against strong teams (they’re in a 10-game gauntlet against the Padres and Giants back-to-back), repeated short starts could tax the bullpen. Also, relying on relatively inexperienced relievers like Casparius, Dreyer, and Wrobleski in high-leverage situations is a risk – young pitchers can be unpredictable under pressure, and the Giants may feel more confident if they can get past the frontline guys in the pen. If a close game in the 8th or 9th comes down to a lesser-tested arm due to matchups or fatigue on the Dodgers side, that could be a Dodgers vulnerability.
Defensive Adjustments: The Dodgers’ defense is generally solid, but there have been some adjustments that bear watching. Mookie Betts has been known to play second base to get another outfielder in the lineup (especially when they had J.D. Martinez as DH in 2024), but with Ohtani mostly DHing, Betts has returned to mostly outfield duty in 2025. The midseason acquisition of Tommy Edman suggests the Dodgers wanted to shore up middle infield defense and add speed. Edman is excellent, but it also means less stability in the lineup (Gavin Lux was expected to be the SS of the future before his injury in 2023; Miguel Rojas was a stopgap in 2024). So currently, the Dodgers might shuffle pieces – e.g., Edman at 2B, Betts in RF, etc. While Betts and Edman are good defenders, integrating new players can sometimes lead to miscommunications or gaps. In Game 1, for example, despite Edman’s great play, the Dodgers had a minor miscue with a check-swing call that irritated them and possibly distracted Yamamoto briefly. They’ve also committed a high number of errors earlier in the season (Muncy at third had some struggles before Edman’s arrival pushed him more to 3B/DH mix). It’s not a glaring weakness, but compared to past years with prime defensive lineups, the 2025 Dodgers have had a few more hiccups in the field.
Pitching Schedule Adjustments: One interesting note is Yamamoto’s adaptation to the MLB schedule. In Japan, he pitched on six days of rest; in MLB, it’s typically five or fewer. Some have speculated that this tighter rotation is affecting him, as his ERA has risen from a minuscule 0.90 in his first seven starts to 4.46 over his last seven starts. While he downplays it, the numbers suggest the rest adjustment could be a factor. If fatigue is creeping in for him or other pitchers, that could be a factor as the season wears on. Also, Kershaw’s health is something to watch – he’s been on a managed workload in recent years. The Dodgers might be more vulnerable in the back end of a series if they have to dig into their Triple-A depth or bullpen for starts due to these schedule constraints.

How the Giants Can Continue Beating the Dodgers

With the series now tilted in San Francisco’s favor after Game 1, the Giants will aim to build on what worked and secure a series win. How can the Giants keep the upper hand against their powerhouse rivals? Here are several key strategies and insights:

Pitch Fearlessly to the Stars: In Game 1, Logan Webb set the tone by aggressively attacking the Dodgers’ big hitters. He notably struck out Shohei Ohtani twice and held him 0-for-4. The Giants’ pitching staff must continue executing smart, fearless pitches to the heart of L.A.’s order. That means mixing pitches well against Ohtani (Webb used sinkers and changeups to great effect), not giving in with cookies to Freddie Freeman, and expanding the zone to induce chase from guys like Muncy who can be patient but also strikeout-prone. The blueprint Webb provided – keep the ball down, don’t be afraid to challenge hitters like Ohtani inside, and trust your defense – should be followed by the next starters. If rookie Landen Roupp (starting Game 2) can even approximate Webb’s effectiveness, the Giants will be in excellent shape. San Francisco might also consider strategically walking Ohtani in certain spots if a base is open, to let someone else try to beat them. Essentially, make the other Dodgers deliver the big hit.
Maintain Plate Discipline: The Giants won Game 1 in large part due to patient, disciplined at-bats that exploited Dodger pitching wildness. They drew five walks from Yamamoto, including three in that pivotal third inning to load the bases. This patience forced the Dodgers into disadvantageous situations and higher pitch counts. San Francisco should continue to grind out at-bats, see lots of pitches, and put pressure on L.A.’s pitchers. Even against a veteran like Kershaw in Game 2, working the count can pay off – Kershaw is just back from injury, so if the Giants make him throw 20+ pitches an inning, he might only last 5 innings or so. Drawing walks or deep counts also helps get into the Dodgers’ middle relief faster. The Giants have a keen eye up and down the lineup (Jung Hoo Lee, for example, came from the KBO with a reputation for terrific plate discipline). By staying selective and not expanding the strike zone, they can replicate the formula that got Yamamoto in trouble. Keep taking your walks and pounce on the pitcher’s mistakes.
Clutch Hitting with RISP: The Giants need to continue coming through in big moments with runners on. In Game 1, Casey Schmitt delivered a two-out grand slam that broke the game open. That kind of clutch hitting is how you beat a strong team – make them pay dearly for any lapse. Moving forward, the Giants should be aggressive but smart when they have runners in scoring position. They can’t count on grand slams every night, but even a clutch two-out single with two men on can swing a game. San Francisco has been good about not leaving too many men stranded during their recent hot streak. Key hitters like Wilmer Flores (who leads the team in RBIs) and Thairo Estrada/Dominic Smith (if he’s in the lineup) should be prepared for RBI opportunities, as the Dodgers may pitch around others to face them. So far, Giants hitters have shown they won’t miss the hittable pitch when it matters – keeping that killer instinct is crucial. If the Giants go, say, 0-for-10 with RISP in a game, that’s how you let the Dodgers off the hook. They must capitalize on the chances they create.
Leverage Matchups and Bench Depth: One advantage the Giants have is a deep bench with platoon options, and a manager in Melvin who isn’t shy about using them. For example, if the Dodgers bring in a tough lefty reliever to face Joc Pederson (if he’s on the roster) or another lefty bat, the Giants can counter with a right-handed pinch hitter like J.D. Davis or Austin Slater. In Game 2, facing left-hander Clayton Kershaw, expect the Giants to start a right-leaning lineup: Wilmer Flores (who mashes lefties) likely at first base or DH, perhaps Mitch Haniger (if healthy) or another righty bat in the outfield, etc. Conversely, if the Dodgers start a righty in Game 3, the Giants can plug in lefty swingers like Mike Yastrzemski or Blake Sabol. This platoon strategy can eke out small edges in each individual matchup. Also, San Francisco’s pinch-runner and defensive substitutions could play a role in late innings – e.g., subbing in a speedy runner like Isan Díaz or defensive upgrade like Brett Wisely (just hypotheticals) to protect a lead or try to score an insurance run. The Giants should continue to press every little advantage, effectively treating these games with postseason-level tactical intensity.
Bullpen Execution and Roles: As the series progresses, bullpen management will be vital. The Giants should stick to the formula that’s worked: use Camilo Doval in save situations or against the Dodgers’ toughest hitters late, and deploy setup men like Tyler Rogers or John Brebbia in the 7th/8th as needed. One key will be not allowing the Dodgers to get momentum late in games. In Game 1, the Giants immediately answered the Dodgers’ 7th-inning homer with one of their own in the 8th and then shut the door. If the Giants find themselves in a close game, Melvin might consider going to Doval for a 4-out or 5-out save if the situation calls (for example, if Ohtani and Freeman are up in the 8th in a one-run game). Also, being cautious with matchups like not letting a lefty reliever face Mookie Betts (who kills lefties) could be key – better to bring in a righty sidearmer like Rogers in that spot. Essentially, the Giants need their bullpen to continue what it’s been doing: throw strikes and keep the Dodger hitters in the ballpark. Limiting walks (don’t give L.A. free baserunners), and keeping the ball on the ground in double-play situations will help choke off any Dodger rally. Thus far, Giants relievers have shown they can handle the Dodgers (no hits allowed in the final two innings of Game 1). Keeping that confidence and execution will greatly increase the chances of securing another win.
Keep the Foot on the Gas: It’s easy for a team to relax after a big win, but the Giants must maintain an aggressive mindset. The Dodgers are famous for coming back strong after losses, so the Giants should treat Game 2 like a must-win as well. That means staying aggressive on the basepaths – if an opportunity arises to take an extra base or steal, go for it. (Jung Hoo Lee and others have the speed; Ohtani in the DH spot means the Dodgers’ outfield defense and catcher throws might be exploitable for steals.) It also means not letting up if they get a lead. Against Los Angeles, insurance runs are always valuable – the Dodgers can score in a hurry. So if the Giants are up by a couple of runs in the middle innings, they should still be looking to tack on via sac flies, squeeze plays, or searching for another big fly. Complacency can be fatal against a team as talented as L.A. San Francisco should also continue playing with that chip on their shoulder; some in the media still see the Dodgers as the favorites, so the Giants can use that as motivation to prove the doubters wrong. In sum: stay hungry, stay aggressive, and don’t assume one win is enough.
Exploit Any Dodger Weaknesses: Through one game, a few potential Dodger weaknesses have emerged that the Giants can exploit. Yamamoto’s discomfort with a smaller strike zone and quicker MLB rotation was one – they took advantage by being patient; if he were to pitch again or if another Dodger pitcher shows frustration, the Giants should continue to be selectively aggressive and make them work. Another is the Dodgers’ vulnerability to the long ball this year – notably, Dodger pitchers have now given up six grand slams on the season, the most in MLB. That suggests that when the bases are loaded or traffic is on, their pitchers might be prone to yielding the big blow. The Giants should carry confidence in those spots; they know it’s happened before, and it just happened with Schmitt’s swing. Also, watch the Dodgers’ base running and miscues: in Game 1, L.A. had a rally killed by a double play and some hesitation on the bases. The Giants defense can play a role by being alert and making strong throws (as Yastrzemski did, nearly getting Smith at home in the second inning). Every little edge counts. If the Dodgers are pressing – knowing the Giants have caught them in the standings – the Giants can benefit by playing loose and capitalizing on any Dodger over-aggression or mistakes.

In summary, the Giants can continue beating the Dodgers by executing the same blueprint that worked in Game 1: strong pitching to contain L.A.’s stars, patience at the plate to create opportunities, and clutch execution when those opportunities arise. Add in savvy in-game management and maintaining their current momentum, and San Francisco has a real chance to win this series in Dodger Stadium. The key will be consistency and focus; the Dodgers rarely beat themselves, so the Giants must keep earning it every inning.

Series Prediction: Who Will Win?

This showdown between the Giants and Dodgers is living up to its billing, and it’s shaping up to be a tightly contested series. Each team has distinct strengths – the Dodgers have the marquee talent and home-field advantage, while the Giants have momentum and a more effective pitching staff at the moment. With Game 1 in the books as a Giants win, the series stands at 1-0 in favor of San Francisco. So, what can we expect in the remaining games, and who is likely to emerge on top?

Looking at the upcoming matchups: Game 2 features Clayton Kershaw vs. Landen Roupp. This is a classic experience vs. youth scenario. Kershaw, a future Hall of Famer, has an edge in pedigree, but he’s just returning from injury and may be on a pitch limit. Roupp is a bit of a wild card – the Dodgers haven’t seen him much, which could work to his advantage the first time through the lineup. If the Giants can scratch a few runs off Kershaw early and keep the game close, their bullpen could make the difference in the later innings. Game 3’s starters aren’t officially confirmed as of this writing, but the Giants could potentially go with Robbie Ray, who has been their hottest pitcher (8-1), while the Dodgers might start a young arm like Bobby Miller or use an opener. That matchup could actually favor the Giants on paper, given Ray’s experience and success this year. The Dodgers, however, will adjust and fight hard to avoid dropping a home series to their rivals.

Considering all factors, the Giants appear poised to take this series. They have already proven they can win in L.A. by taking Game 1 convincingly. Their pitching depth right now might be slightly better aligned than the Dodgers’, and their hitters are coming through in clutch spots. The Dodgers’ recent slump and banged-up rotation give San Francisco an opening to capitalize. It’s likely going to be close – don’t be surprised if Game 2 or 3 comes down to a late-inning situation or even extra innings. The Dodgers will almost certainly bounce back with a better effort, and one can never count out their star-studded lineup from erupting. That said, the Giants have the blueprint and confidence to finish the job.

Prediction: The Giants will win the series two games to one, handing Los Angeles a rare home series loss. San Francisco’s combination of strong pitching and balanced hitting will earn them another victory in one of the next two games, allowing them to clinch the series. The Dodgers’ firepower will likely secure them one win (they’re too good to be swept at home), but the momentum is on the Giants’ side to take the series. If the Giants execute their game plan and maintain their poise, they are likely to emerge from this June 2025 clash as the victors, seizing a statement series and sole possession of first place in the NL West.

Keep an eye on the remainder of this matchup – with the rivalry intensity and talent on both rosters, it’s bound to deliver more thrills. But as of now, the Giants have put themselves in the driver’s seat, and they look ready to finish off the Dodgers and head back to San Francisco with a series win in their back pocket.

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