Giants Defeat Dodgers in Series Opener

LOS ANGELES: In a compelling series opener at Dodger Stadium on Friday, Casey Schmitt’s first career grand slam propelled the San Francisco Giants to a 6-2 triumph over the Los Angeles Dodgers. This matchup marks the initial encounter of the season between these division rivals and their latest first clash since 1999.

Schmitt’s pivotal hit occurred in the third inning against Dodgers right-hander Yoshinobu Yamamoto (6-5), who struggled, surrendering five runs on six hits and issuing five walks in 4 2/3 innings.

The Giants gained momentum in the third when Yamamoto faced difficulties. Schmitt’s grand slam extended San Francisco’s advantage to 5-1, representing his second homer of the season.

Willy Adames sustained his impressive form, hitting a solo home run in the first inning and recording one hit and an RBI overall.

Giants right-hander Logan Webb (6-5) delivered a strong performance, conceding only two runs on two hits across seven innings. He registered four strikeouts and three walks.

For the Dodgers, Teoscar Hernández accounted for both of the team’s hits, a single in the fourth and his 12th home run of the season in the seventh.

The Dodgers’ other run materialized in the second inning without a hit. Will Smith scored on a sacrifice fly following a defensive miscue by catcher Andrew Knizner.

Knizner compensated later with a solo home run in the eighth, his first of the year.

Last season, the Dodgers dominated the series, securing nine wins in 13 games, including six of seven at their home stadium.

The subsequent game is scheduled for Sunday at Dodger Stadium.