Dodgers Split Rockies Series Maintaining One-Game Division Lead

The Los Angeles Dodgers secured a 9-5 victory over the Colorado Rockies, splitting the four-game series in Colorado as they maintain a narrow lead over the San Diego Padres in the National League West standings. Clayton Kershaw pitched 5.2 innings, allowing three earned runs on six hits with three strikeouts, marking his fourth straight solid start despite falling just short of a quality start. Freddie Freeman ignited the offense early with a two-run home run, and contributions from Andy Pages, Alex Freeland, and Will Smith bolstered the Dodgers' lead. The Rockies, led offensively by Brenton Doyle, managed to split the series despite struggles against Kershaw, against whom he holds his most victories against any team. The Dodgers are preparing for a critical three-game series against the Padres, with key pitchers Blake Snell, Tyler Glasnow, and Yoshinobu Yamamoto set to start. Though Kershaw will not pitch in the upcoming series, his performance continues to be a crucial factor in the Dodgers' push for postseason positioning.