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Dodgers Shut Out Rays as Kershaw, Freeman Lead the Way

Aug 2, 2025
In a clash of potential postseason contenders, the Los Angeles Dodgers delivered a commanding 5–0 shutout win over the Tampa Bay Rays on Friday night at Tr
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Dodgers Shut Out Rays as Kershaw, Freeman Lead the Way Articlepaid

In a clash of potential postseason contenders, the Los Angeles Dodgers delivered a commanding 5–0 shutout win over the Tampa Bay Rays on Friday night at Tropicana Field. With legendary ace Clayton Kershaw turning back the clock and Shohei Ohtani and Freddie Freeman contributing at the plate, the Dodgers reminded the baseball world why they’re still a top-tier force in 2025.

Kershaw, who had missed several starts due to shoulder discomfort, returned with vintage form, silencing the Rays’ offense over six scoreless innings. The Dodgers’ bats didn’t waste the opportunity, capitalizing on Rays starter Shane Baz's struggles early in the game.

The Dodgers vs Rays showdown didn’t just feature big names — it offered a glimpse of October intensity in August. Here's a breakdown of what made the game a statement win for L.A., the players who stood out, and what this performance means for both squads moving forward.



Clayton Kershaw Shines in Return to the Mound

 

Clayton Kershaw proved once again why he remains one of the most respected pitchers in baseball. In his first appearance since returning from the injured list, the 36-year-old lefty tossed six dominant innings, allowing just three hits while striking out eight Rays batters.

There was some uncertainty heading into the game — not only because of Kershaw's time off but also because Tampa Bay boasts one of the more aggressive lineups in the American League. However, Kershaw mixed speeds, location, and his signature curveball to keep the Rays guessing all night.

Kershaw’s final stat line:

  • Innings pitched: 6
  • Hits allowed: 3
  • Strikeouts: 8
  • Walks: 1
  • ERA: Dropped to 2.41

After the game, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts praised Kershaw's preparation and execution:

“Vintage Kershaw. Just gutsy, composed, and absolutely in command. You could tell the moment he stepped on that mound, he was locked in.”

The Dodgers bullpen backed him up seamlessly, with Blake Treinen, Ryan Brasier, and Daniel Hudson combining for three perfect innings to complete the shutout.



Freddie Freeman and Shohei Ohtani Lead the Offense

 

While Kershaw’s brilliance on the mound grabbed headlines, the Dodgers’ offensive standouts made sure the lead was never in doubt.

Freddie Freeman opened the scoring in the top of the third with a two-run blast off Shane Baz, continuing his hot streak. It marked Freeman’s 22nd homer of the season and provided an early cushion that allowed the pitching staff to settle in.

Shohei Ohtani followed suit in the fifth inning, driving in a run with a deep double to center that scored Mookie Betts. Ohtani, who entered the game batting .312, also stole a base and recorded his 85th RBI of the season.

Key Dodgers offensive performances:

  • Freddie Freeman: 2-for-4, HR, 2 RBI
  • Shohei Ohtani: 1-for-3, RBI, SB
  • Will Smith: 2-for-4, R
  • Mookie Betts: 1-for-3, 2 R, BB

Los Angeles now ranks top-three in team batting average and slugging percentage across Major League Baseball — a testament to how dangerous their lineup is from top to bottom.



Shane Baz Struggles in Short Start for Rays

 

Tampa Bay’s young right-hander Shane Baz entered the game with promise but struggled with command and consistency. He lasted just four innings, surrendering three earned runs on six hits and two walks. While Baz flashed his fastball, he had difficulty locating his breaking pitches, which the Dodgers took full advantage of.

Manager Kevin Cash pulled Baz before the fifth inning, and the bullpen was tasked with limiting the damage. Though relievers Shawn Armstrong and Jason Adam kept the game from becoming a blowout, the offense never responded.

Baz’s ERA climbed to 4.22, and the outing served as a reminder that the Rays’ pitching staff, while talented, is still navigating inconsistency as they chase a Wild Card spot.



Rays’ Offensive Woes Continue Against Elite Pitching

 

Facing one of the league’s best pitching units, the Rays’ bats were unusually quiet. They managed just four hits in the game, failed to move runners into scoring position, and struck out 12 times.

Yandy Díaz and Randy Arozarena went a combined 1-for-7, while Isaac Paredes and Jose Caballero were held hitless. Tampa Bay’s team batting average dipped slightly after the game, reflecting a broader slump that has plagued them since the All-Star break.

Rays offensive struggles in numbers:

  • Team batting average in last 5 games: .219
  • Runs per game in last 5: 2.6
  • RISP performance vs. Dodgers: 0-for-5
  • Total strikeouts: 12

If the Rays want to make a deep postseason run, they’ll need their top-of-the-lineup hitters to find their groove — and fast.



What This Game Means for the Dodgers

 

For the Dodgers, this win was about more than just another tally in the standings. It was a reassurance that their veteran core — led by Kershaw, Freeman, and Betts — remains elite, and their newer additions like Ohtani are seamlessly blending into a championship-caliber roster.

The Dodgers now sit atop the NL West with a comfortable cushion, but with teams like the Padres and Giants gaining ground, every win counts. More importantly, Kershaw’s successful return adds depth to a rotation that’s already led by Tyler Glasnow, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, and Bobby Miller.

If Kershaw stays healthy, the Dodgers’ rotation could become one of the most feared in baseball come October.



Where the Rays Go From Here

 

Despite the loss, the Rays remain in the thick of the American League Wild Card race. But they’ll need more consistent performances — especially from their pitching and key offensive players — to maintain playoff position.

Injuries have plagued their rotation, and players like Brandon Lowe and Josh Lowe need to step up at the plate. Manager Kevin Cash remains optimistic but acknowledged post-game that the team must improve its fundamentals.

“We’re not executing at the level we need to. Against a team like the Dodgers, any mistake gets amplified,” said Cash.

With upcoming matchups against the Yankees and Astros, Tampa Bay’s margin for error is shrinking.



Key Moments That Defined the Game

 

Friday’s Dodgers vs Rays contest wasn’t a back-and-forth thriller — it was a steady, professional, and dominant win by a well-oiled machine. These moments stood out:

  • Freeman’s 2-run homer (3rd inning): Gave the Dodgers early control
  • Ohtani’s RBI double (5th inning): Extended the lead and showcased his versatility
  • Kershaw's 8th strikeout (6th inning): Capped a triumphant return to form
  • Dodgers’ bullpen efficiency: Three relievers, zero baserunners

These plays highlighted the experience, talent, and discipline that make the Dodgers one of MLB’s most complete teams.



A Glimpse at a Potential World Series Matchup?

 

Though it’s still early August, Friday night’s game offered a potential preview of what could be a World Series clash. The Dodgers remain favorites to come out of the National League, and the Rays — despite their inconsistency — have the raw talent and postseason experience to make a run.

If the Rays can get healthy and find their rhythm at the plate, they’ll remain a serious threat. But against a team like the Dodgers, anything less than elite execution won’t cut it.


Dodgers Send a Message

With a vintage performance from Clayton Kershaw, power from Freddie Freeman, and clutch contributions from Shohei Ohtani, the Dodgers showed they are peaking at the right time. Their 5–0 win over the Rays was a statement — both to the rest of the league and to themselves.

Tampa Bay, meanwhile, faces questions that demand answers as the postseason approaches. They’ll need to regroup quickly, especially with their schedule heating up.

Tagged in:
dodgers vs rays Clayton Kershaw Dodgers shutout Shohei Ohtani Freddie Freeman Rays MLB recap Dodgers highlights MLB playoff picture Dodgers pitching ays offense
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