UPDATE: In a nail-biting finish, the Los Angeles Dodgers triumphed over the Philadelphia Phillies 2-1 on July 15, 2025, securing their place in the National League Championship Series (NLCS). The decisive moment came in the 11th inning when Orion Kerkering made a critical error, throwing wild past J.T. Realmuto instead of making a routine play to first base.
With two outs and the bases loaded, Kerkering mishandled a grounder hit by Andy Pages. His errant throw allowed pinch-runner Hyeseong Kim to cross home plate, sending a euphoric crowd of 50,563 fans at Dodger Stadium into a frenzy. The Dodgers have now advanced to the NLCS for the eighth time in 13 years, showcasing their dominance in postseason play.
The tension escalated after Nick Castellanos put the Phillies ahead with a crucial RBI double in the seventh inning. However, the Dodgers quickly responded. Mookie Betts was walked with the bases loaded, resulting in an immediate tying run. The late-game drama culminated with Tommy Edman’s single and Muncy’s two-out hit, setting the stage for Kerkering’s fateful misplay.
Fans were on their feet for the last three innings, experiencing the palpable excitement of playoff baseball.
“It’s a tough break for Kerkering, but we’ve got to rally as a team,”
said Phillies manager Rob Thomson, who was seen comforting the distraught reliever after the game.
The Dodgers’ victory marks a significant moment in their storied franchise history, as this marks the third walk-off win to clinch a playoff series. The last time they achieved this against the Phillies was in the 1978 NLCS.
As the Dodgers gear up for the NLCS, they await their opponent, either the Chicago Cubs or the Milwaukee Brewers, who are also competing fiercely for a chance at the championship. Fans and analysts alike will be closely watching this matchup as the postseason continues to heat up.
The emotional stakes have never been higher, with both teams fighting for glory and redemption. The Dodgers are looking to repeat their success as defending champions, while the Phillies face elimination for the third consecutive year in the Division Series.
Stay tuned for the latest developments as the postseason unfolds, and the Dodgers prepare for their next challenge.
