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Dodgers’ Tanner Scott toasts Mookie Betts for unlikely win vs. Phillies appeared first on ClutchPoints. Add ClutchPoints as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Philadelphia Phillies stumbled their way to a painful 2-1 loss versus the Los Angeles Dodgers on Tuesday night, but the two-time reigning World Series champions still had to grab the win. Mookie Betts demonstrated the savvy that is so often overlooked on this club, and Tanner Scott is extremely grateful that he did.
The left-handed relief pitcher found himself in a jam in the bottom of the ninth inning, but both the opposition and his teammates came to the rescue. With one out and runners on second and third, Brandon Marsh hit a ground ball to Max Muncy that rattled the speedy Justin Crawford. The rookie center fielder started to dart toward home plate but got caught in a pickle, which caused catcher J.T. Realmuto to make his way to third. Betts took advantage of the disorganization.
The future Hall of Famer sprinted from shortstop to cover the hot corner, tagged out Crawford and then threw out a retreating Realmuto at second base to end the game. It is the kind of brilliant maneuver that reminds people that the four-time World Series champion and 2018 MVP is more than a sensational talent. He can make a massive difference with his instincts as well. Scott gave Betts his flowers following the bonkers ending inside Citizens Bank Park.
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“I knew Crawford was fast, and Muncy got the ball to {Dalton} Rushing, had to get it to Mookie, then next thing you know, I see J.T. going back, and I don’t know. Mookie made a hell of a play.”
Realmuto had an untimely brain freeze after Crawford’s blunder — should have just stayed at third base — and Betts was ready to make him pay. The seven-time Silver Slugger was unable to impact the game with his bat after smashing two home runs in Monday’s 10-7 loss, but he wound up wearing the cape all the same.
The Dodgers once again rely on their fundamental soundness and defensive prowess to escape a sticky situation. Los Angeles may have the luxury of buying star power, but the organization also does an excellent job of keeping its players disciplined for moments just like these.
LA (64-38) will try to plunge another dagger into the Phillies (56-46) when they square off in Wednesday’s series finale. First pitch will come at approximately 6:40 p.m. ET.
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