Dodgers Win Game 4, Force NLDS Game 5

The Los Angeles Dodgers achieved a critical 8-0 victory over the San Diego Padres in Game 4 of the NL Division Series, forcing a decisive Game 5. Mookie Betts shone with a solo homer and two RBIs, while Shohei Ohtani contributed an RBI single, showcasing the Dodgers' resilience despite facing elimination and missing star first baseman Freddie Freeman due to injury. The Dodgers' bullpen excelled, combining to hold the Padres scoreless over seven hits, marking an impressive turnaround after two consecutive losses in the series. This win sets up a winner-take-all Game 5, with the victor advancing to face the New York Mets for the National League Championship Series. The Padres' decision to start Dylan Cease on short rest proved detrimental, as he struggled early and was chased from the game. The atmosphere at Petco Park was tense, with a record crowd hoping for a San Diego victory that ultimately did not materialize.