Dodgers Drop Close Contest to Diamondbacks Despite Early Lead

PHOENIX, ARIZONA - JUNE 01: Emmet Sheehan #80 of the Los Angeles Dodgers delivers a first-inning pitch against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field on June 01, 2026 in Phoenix, Arizona. (Photo by Norm Hall/Getty Images)

In a tightly contested matchup, the Arizona Diamondbacks edged out the Los Angeles Dodgers 4-1, thanks to a strong performance from veteran Eduardo Rodríguez, who outshined rookie Emmet Sheehan on the mound. Despite entering the game with a struggling offense, the Diamondbacks capitalized late, hitting three home runs to secure the victory.

The Dodgers initially took the lead, scoring their only run in the third inning when Shohei Ohtani doubled and later crossed home on an RBI groundout by Freddie Freeman. However, the Diamondbacks responded with power in the sixth, seventh, and eighth innings, hitting solo home runs from Tommy Troy and Nolan Arenado, followed by a two-run shot from Ketel Marte, which provided crucial insurance runs.

Sheehan pitched effectively for over six innings, allowing just two runs on three hits and striking out three batters. However, his mistakes on two pivotal pitches led to the home runs that altered the game's momentum. The rookie left the game with a record of 4-2, marking his second loss of the season. In contrast, Rodríguez maintained control throughout, permitting only one base runner per inning and limiting the Dodgers to five hits.

The Dodgers had a chance to rally in the eighth inning when Ohtani reached base again, but a double play thwarted their efforts. With Marte's homer extending the Diamondbacks' lead to 4-1, the Dodgers were unable to recover. The win went to reliever Taylor Clarke, while Paul Sewald secured his 15th save of the season.

Looking ahead, the Dodgers will hope for a better outcome as Eric Lauer makes his second start for the team against Arizona. The game is set to begin at 6:40 p.m. (PT).