To avoid a sweep at the hands of the Nationals, the kings of the National League East, the Dodgers required a multitude of good fortune. Clayton Kershaw outdueled Washington starter Stephen Strasburg. The offense pounced on the tiniest of openings. After Kershaw left, the Dodgers needed the quick hands of Pedro Baez to avoid a catastrophe in a 2-1 victory.
The timing of Kershaw’s departure was curious. Manager Dave Roberts allowed him to bat to end the seventh. He struck out, then learned his day was done.