Dodgers Sweep Padres to Regain NL West Lead

The Los Angeles Dodgers swept the San Diego Padres in a crucial three-game weekend series at Dodger Stadium, reclaiming the top spot in the National League West with a two-game lead. The Dodgers won the first game 3-2 with a decisive late solo home run from Teoscar Hernandez and strong pitching from Clayton Kershaw. They followed with a 6-0 victory in Game 2, highlighted by Blake Snell's six scoreless innings and offensive support, including Hernandez's second consecutive homer. The final game saw a dramatic comeback by the Padres to tie 4-4, but Mookie Betts hit a go-ahead solo home run in the eighth inning and Alex Vesia closed out the win, securing the sweep. This sweep marked the Dodgers’ first three-game winning streak in six weeks and was pivotal in overcoming a recent slump, with key players finding their form at the right moment. The Dodgers now hold an 8-2 record against the Padres this season, clinching the season series and positioning themselves strongly for the remainder of the campaign.