In an exciting interleague matchup at Progressive Field, the Cleveland Guardians staged a dramatic comeback to defeat the Los Angeles Dodgers 7-4 on Wednesday, May 28, 2025. The game, which saw the Guardians snap a three-game losing streak, was highlighted by a clutch three-run homer from Angel Martinez in the eighth inning. This victory not only avoided a series sweep by the Dodgers but also showcased Cleveland’s resilience and offensive firepower. With a season-high 15 hits, the Guardians demonstrated why they remain a competitive force in the American League Central. Here’s a detailed look at how the game unfolded and its significance for both teams.
Game Recap: A Thrilling Comeback
The Guardians entered the bottom of the eighth inning trailing 4-2, with the Dodgers seemingly in control after a strong performance from their starter, Clayton Kershaw. Kershaw, a three-time National League Cy Young Award winner, pitched a season-high five innings, allowing just one run on six hits while striking out three. Despite his efforts, the Dodgers’ bullpen faltered, setting the stage for Cleveland’s rally.
The turning point came in the eighth inning when the Guardians erupted for five runs against relievers Tanner Scott and Alex Vesia. Carlos Santana’s single in the seventh had already cut the Dodgers’ lead to 4-2 by scoring Jose Ramirez, who extended his career-long hitting streak to 21 games. In the eighth, Nolan Jones contributed with a single that drove in two runs, tying the game. Then, with two runners on base, Angel Martinez stepped up to the plate and crushed a three-run homer off Vesia, sending the Progressive Field crowd into a frenzy. The homer, which just cleared the 19-foot wall in left field, gave Cleveland a 7-4 lead they would not relinquish.
Emmanuel Clase sealed the victory with a flawless ninth inning, retiring the Dodgers in order to earn his 11th save of the season. Matt Festa (1-0) picked up the win in relief, while Scott (0-1) took the loss for Los Angeles. The Guardians’ offensive outburst included eight hits in the final two innings, showcasing their ability to capitalize on opportunities against a formidable opponent.
Key Performances: Martinez Shines, Kershaw Returns
Angel Martinez, a 23-year-old switch-hitting utility player, was the hero of the game. His three-run homer was his third of the season and his second hit of the day, underscoring his growing importance to the Guardians’ lineup. Manager Stephen Vogt praised Martinez’s versatility, noting, “I like playing him on the field,” a testament to his ability to impact games both offensively and defensively. Martinez also contributed early, doubling in the first inning and scoring on a Jose Ramirez RBI single to give Cleveland an initial 1-0 lead.
For the Dodgers, Clayton Kershaw delivered a solid outing in his third start since returning from left knee and toe surgeries. The veteran left-hander, who was on the injured list until May 17, allowed just one run over five innings, giving Los Angeles a chance to win. However, the bullpen’s collapse in the eighth inning proved costly. Teoscar Hernandez, Will Smith, and Andy Pages each drove in a run for the Dodgers, but their offense couldn’t keep pace with Cleveland’s late surge. Shohei Ohtani, the major league leader with 20 home runs, went 0-for-3 with a walk, a rare quiet day for the superstar.
On the mound for Cleveland, Kolby Allard made a spot start and held the Dodgers to two runs over four innings. Allard, who signed a minor league deal with the Guardians in February, has been effective since his promotion from Triple-A Columbus, boasting a 2.05 ERA in 22 innings over nine appearances this season. His ability to keep the game close early allowed Cleveland’s offense to stay within striking distance.
Significance for Both Teams
The win improved the Guardians’ record to 29-25, keeping them third in the AL Central and 14-10 at home. This victory was crucial in halting a three-game skid and avoiding a sweep by the Dodgers, who entered the game with a 34-21 record and first place in the NL West. Cleveland’s ability to rally against a top-tier team like Los Angeles highlights their potential as a playoff contender, especially with their knack for winning close games (8-4 in one-run contests).
For the Dodgers, the loss was a missed opportunity to complete a three-game sweep on the road. Despite their strong 15-13 road record and league-leading 87 home runs, the bullpen’s struggles exposed a vulnerability. The absence of several key relievers, including Evan Phillips (forearm) and Blake Treinen (forearm), among others on the injured list, may have contributed to the late-game collapse. Los Angeles will look to regroup as they continue their road trip.
Standout Players and Stats
Jose Ramirez continued his impressive season, extending his hitting streak to 21 games with an RBI single in the first inning. His 1,564th career hit moved him into eighth place in Cleveland’s franchise history. Steven Kwan, despite a wrist injury, remains a key offensive contributor, batting .314 with 12 doubles and four homers this season. The Guardians’ 15 hits in the game marked a season high, with eight coming against the Dodgers’ bullpen.
On the Dodgers’ side, their offense has been powered by home runs, averaging 1.6 per game, second only to the Guardians’ 1.0 per game in the AL. However, their inability to generate consistent offense against Cleveland’s pitching, particularly in the late innings, proved decisive.
Looking Ahead
The Guardians are off on Thursday before starting a three-game series against the Los Angeles Angels. This break provides an opportunity to rest and prepare for another challenging opponent. Meanwhile, the Dodgers will aim to bounce back from this loss as they continue their road trip, with their deep lineup and pitching staff still making them a formidable force in the National League.
This game was a reminder of the unpredictability and excitement of baseball. The Guardians’ comeback, fueled by Martinez’s heroics, showcased the heart of a team fighting to stay in the playoff race. For fans, it was a thrilling display of resilience and clutch performance, proving once again why baseball remains America’s pastime.
Why This Matters
For Cleveland fans, this win is a morale booster, especially after a tough stretch that included losses to the Dodgers in the first two games of the series. The Guardians’ ability to rally against a star-studded team like Los Angeles reinforces their potential to compete with the best. For the Dodgers, the loss highlights the importance of bullpen depth, especially in a long season where injuries can take a toll.
As the 2025 season progresses, both teams will look to build on their strengths. The Guardians will rely on their balanced offense and emerging stars like Martinez, while the Dodgers will aim to stabilize their bullpen to complement their potent lineup. With the trade deadline approaching and playoff races heating up, every game carries weight, and this matchup was no exception.
For more details on the game, check out the full recap on MLB.com or read about Angel Martinez’s impact on Cleveland.com. To follow the Guardians’ upcoming series, visit News5Cleveland.com for updates.
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