Blake Snell shines with seven innings in Dodgers' playoff win

In the United States, Blake Snell took the mound for the Los Angeles Dodgers in Game 1 of the National League Wild Card Series against the Cincinnati Reds on September 30, 2025. Snell, who recently signed a five-year, $182 million deal with the Dodgers, had an impressive regular season, achieving a 2.35 ERA over 11 starts despite facing injuries that limited his appearances. His ability to pitch during the playoffs was a significant factor in the Dodgers' decision to bring him on board, as they aimed to utilize his talent for crucial games. Snell's start in the playoffs was highly anticipated, especially given his previous performance where he threw his first career no-hitter against the Reds while playing for the San Francisco Giants the season before. During the game, Snell showcased his skills by pitching seven innings and allowing just two earned runs, effectively helping the Dodgers secure a victory in their first postseason game. His presence on the mound was critical, as the Dodgers hoped to establish a strong playoff run with a rotation that included other top pitchers such as Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto. Snell himself expressed excitement and motivation for the opportunity to pitch in October, emphasizing his desire to face the best competition when the stakes are the highest. Following the game, Snell reflected on his performance and the significance of playing in front of the home crowd. His emotional connection to the game and the fans was evident as he acknowledged that there’s nothing better than pitching during the postseason at home. The Dodgers' decision to rely on Snell instead of other players, like Tyler Glasnow, further illustrates their confidence in his abilities. Snell's performance capped off what had been a challenging season for him and highlighted the impact he can have in crucial moments. As the postseason progresses, it is expected that the Dodgers will continue to count on Snell as they advance to potentially face tougher opponents later in the playoff bracket. His Game 1 performance against the Reds was a statement of what he can deliver in the postseason, raising the hopes for Dodgers fans looking for success in the playoffs. The upcoming Game 2 will feature Yoshinobu Yamamoto as the starter, keeping the spotlight on the Dodgers’ formidable pitching rotation, underscoring their approach as they aim for a deep postseason run.