Dodgers Edge Cardinals with Ohtani's Power and Kershaw's Dominance

ST. LOUIS (AP) — In a thrilling matchup on Sunday, the Los Angeles Dodgers secured a narrow 2-1 victory over the St. Louis Cardinals, propelled by Shohei Ohtani's league-leading 39th home run and a stellar performance from pitcher Clayton Kershaw. The win marked the Dodgers' seventh victory in their last ten games, solidifying their position at the top of the National League West. Ohtani's decisive moment came in the fifth inning when he launched a first-pitch offering from Sonny Gray over the outfield wall, breaking a scoreless tie. Miguel Rojas contributed to the scoring with a run-scoring single later in the same inning, helping the Dodgers build a crucial lead. Kershaw, making his fifth start since shoulder surgery, delivered six shutout innings, allowing only four hits and striking out two batters, showcasing his return to form. The Cardinals managed to respond in the eighth inning with a pinch-hit home run from Lars Nootbaar, but it was not enough to overcome the Dodgers' lead. Gray, who took the loss, pitched five innings, giving up two runs and seven hits while striking out six. The Cardinals have struggled recently, losing six of their last seven games. In injury news, Dodgers first baseman Freddie Freeman missed the game after sustaining a finger injury, though X-rays were negative. Meanwhile, the Cardinals are set to face the Milwaukee Brewers on Tuesday, with RHP Erick Fedde taking the mound against Frankie Montas.