In Dodgers vs Red Sox, Emmet Sheehan logs five solid innings in Fenway debut as Teoscar Hernández delivers a crucial two-run homer in the eighth to help Dodgers top Red Sox 5‑2. Dive into stats, series outlook, player profiles, and broadcast info.
🧭 Game Recap & Series Opener
In the opener of their three-game series at Fenway Park on July 25, 2025, the Los Angeles Dodgers defeated the Boston Red Sox, 5–2. Veteran slugger Teoscar Hernández blasted a pivotal two-run home run in the eighth inning, while rookie Emmet Sheehan delivered five solid innings in his first MLB start at Boston College’s backyard.
📅 Background & Series Setting
- The Dodgers (61–43) began a nine-game road trip with the series opener; Boston (55–50) seeks momentum after trading Rafael Devers earlier in June.
- With rotation arms like Yamamoto and May sidelined, Emmet Sheehan got the nod, marking his return from Tommy John surgery.
🔍 Emmet Sheehan’s Fenway Debut
- Sheehan navigated a rocky 1st inning (32 pitches, two walks) before settling in: five innings, 5 K, 2 ER, 78 pitches.
- Despite early control issues, he retired the final nine batters he faced, earning the win and praise from manager Dave Roberts.
🎯 Teoscar Hernández Sparks Dodgers’ Win
- Hernández recorded two hits including a two-run homer in the eighth his 15th on the season putting the game out of reach.
- His walk in the third with bases loaded preceded an Andy Pages sacrifice fly for a 3–0 lead.
- Hernández continues to be a key signing; his resurgence from a May slump stabilized the Dodger lineup .
🏟️ Series Context & Fan Distraction
- Friday’s game coincided with Fenway Park’s first-ever labor strike by food & beer vendors, with support from public figures urging fans not to buy concessions.
- Despite the strike, operations proceeded normally and the game remained sell‑out packed with 36,369 attendees.
📊 Season Implications & Standings
- With this win, LA edges closer to securing a playoff spot in the NL West; Boston continues battling in the tight AL East after losing star Rafael Devers in a blockbuster trade.
- Boston hopes to rebound behind Garrett Crochet on Saturday, while Clayton Kershaw faces Crochet in a marquee Saturday matchup.
📈 Player Profiles: Sheehan & Hernández
Emmet Sheehan
- 25‑year‑old Boston College alum, made MLB debut 2023; returned mid‑June from Tommy John surgery with a 5‑1 record and 4.40 ERA entering the series.
Teoscar Hernández
- Two-time All‑Star, NL Silver Slugger winner, re-signed through 2027; provides veteran power and bounce-back timely hits.
Tonight’s Photo of the Game presented by Daiso. pic.twitter.com/WDdCDGNJIz
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) July 26, 2025
🧾 Dodgers vs Red Sox: Broadcast Info
- Friday’s opener aired on SportsNet LA, with national simulcast on NESN.
- Upcoming matchups: Saturday Clayton Kershaw vs. Garrett Crochet (FOX), Sunday Dustin May vs. Walker Buehler (NESN).
🔨 Tactical Takeaways & What’s Next
- Dodgers’ win showcased three phases working: timely hitting, bullpen shutout innings, and strong defense including zero errors and clutch range plays.
- Red Sox lacked consistency—starter Brayan Bello lasted only 5⅓ innings, gave up 3 runs, and Boston couldn’t capitalize on Fenway’s advantages.