Will Smith's late-game heroics lead LA Dodgers to victory over Arizona Diamondbacks
Category: Sports
The LA Dodgers clinched their third consecutive victory of the 2026 Major League season on March 29, defeating the Arizona Diamondbacks 3-2 at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, California. The game showcased a dramatic comeback, with the Dodgers trailing until the eighth inning when Will Smith turned the tide with a two-run homer, coincidentally on his birthday.
Initially, the Dodgers found themselves in a challenging position, trailing 0-2 by the fifth inning. The Diamondbacks took an early lead, scoring their first run in the first inning through a hit by Corbin Carroll, followed by a clutch single from Pavin Smith that brought in the game's first run. In the third inning, they extended their lead when Carroll hit a sacrifice fly, making it 2-0.
Dodgers starter Tyler Glasnow had a solid outing, pitching six innings with four hits allowed, one walk, and six strikeouts, but he faced the prospect of a loss due to the lack of offensive support from his team. The Dodgers struggled at the plate, remaining scoreless until the sixth inning when they finally broke through.
In the sixth, Kyle Tucker reached base due to an error, and after advancing to second, he was driven in by a double from Freddie Freeman, reducing the deficit to 1-2. Freeman's performance was a highlight of the game, as he finished with three hits and one run batted in, leading the Dodgers’ offense.
The turning point came in the eighth inning. With two outs and the Dodgers still trailing, Mookie Betts drew a walk, setting the stage for Smith. Smith, who had been hitless in his previous three at-bats, delivered a memorable moment by hitting a two-run homer off Diamondbacks pitcher Juan Moriyo, who was throwing a fastball clocked at 98.1 mph. This blast turned the game around and marked a personal celebration for Smith on his birthday.
Smith’s homer brought the Dodgers to a 3-2 lead, and closer Edwin Diaz took the mound in the ninth inning to secure the victory, retiring the side with three fly outs, including Smith and Nolan Arenado.
Throughout the game, the Dodgers faced challenges, with both Shohei Ohtani and Kyle Tucker struggling at the plate, each going hitless. Ohtani, who played as the designated hitter, managed to draw two walks but couldn’t contribute with a hit.
In a post-game interview, Smith expressed his excitement about the win and his birthday homer, stating, "It feels great to contribute like that, especially on my birthday. We really needed that win, and I’m glad I could help the team."
The Dodgers' victory showcased their resilience and highlighted their offensive depth, with Freeman and Smith stepping up when it mattered most. As they continue their season, their ability to come from behind will be a key factor in their pursuit of success.
Looking ahead, the Dodgers will aim to maintain their momentum as they prepare for their next series, hoping to extend their winning streak and solidify their position in the competitive NL West division.