Thu Oct 31 00:20:00 UTC 2024: ## Dodgers’ Bullpen Gamble Backfires, Yankees Force Game 5 in World Series Thriller
**NEW YORK** – The Los Angeles Dodgers’ risky strategy to save their top arms for a potential Game 4 World Series clincher backfired spectacularly, as the New York Yankees stormed back for an 11-4 victory, forcing a pivotal Game 5.
The Dodgers opted for a bullpen game in Game 4, utilizing rookies Ben Casparius and Landon Knack for the majority of the early innings. The strategy initially appeared successful, with the Dodgers holding a 2-1 lead in the fourth. However, the gamble unraveled when veteran reliever Daniel Hudson imploded in the bottom of the fourth.
After hitting Aaron Judge and Giancarlo Stanton, Hudson surrendered a grand slam to Anthony Volpe, who already had three hits on the night. The Yankees never looked back, adding another six runs in the final four innings to secure their first win since Game 1.
The Dodgers’ bullpen strategy was driven by the desire to have their top arms, including potential Game 5 starter Jack Flaherty, available to close out the series. However, the Yankees’ relentless offense proved too much for the Dodgers’ makeshift pitching staff.
“We had many chances to win that ballgame tonight,” acknowledged Dodgers catcher Will Smith.
With the series tied at 2-2, the focus shifts to Wednesday’s Game 5, where Flaherty will face off against reigning AL Cy Young winner Gerrit Cole. The Dodgers will be hoping to avoid a historic comeback by the Yankees, who would become the first team to overcome a 3-0 deficit in the World Series.
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