Shohei Ohtani had two hits and drove in three runs, while rookie Landon Knack pitched well for five innings as the Los Angeles Dodgers extended their winning streak to five games by defeating the San Francisco Giants 5-2 on Tuesday night.
Tyler Fitzgerald made history by becoming the first Giants rookie to hit home runs in five consecutive games with a solo shot in the second inning. Fitzgerald contributed three hits and drove in both of San Francisco’s runs.
Gavin Lux, who was named NL Player of the Week on Monday, started the scoring with a two-run double in the first inning. Lux has gone 7 for 16 with five RBIs since the All-Star break.
“I’m aiming to be more aggressive and find good pitches to hit. As the season progresses and I get more at-bats, I’m feeling more comfortable and building on that,” Lux said.
Ohtani knocked out San Francisco starter Jordan Hicks (4-7) in the fourth inning with a double off the right-field fence, driving in Jason Heyward and Cavan Biggio to increase Los Angeles’ lead to 4-1.
Ohtani later added an RBI single up the middle in the eighth inning.
Fitzgerald’s home run was the only blemish for Knack (2-2), who secured his first win since April 23. The right-hander allowed one run on two hits with six strikeouts and two walks.
Dodgers’ rookie pitchers have started 45 games this season and boast a record of 17-8 with a 3.00 ERA. Los Angeles holds a 27-18 record when starting a rookie pitcher.
“It’s special to see the guys you’ve come up with contribute and have success here,” Knack said. “Seeing the young guys step up and perform has been a rewarding experience.”
Fitzgerald launched a slider from Knack into the Dodgers’ left-field bullpen, bringing the Giants closer at 2-1.
