Kyle Tucker becomes unlikely NLDS hero with Dodgers poised for series sweep

Kyle Tucker delivered a key two-run home run in the sixth inning to help propel the Los Angeles Dodgers to a 5-3 win over the Atlanta Braves in Game 1 of the National League Division Series. Los Angeles Times columnist Bill Plaschke argues that Tucker emerged as an unexpected hero following regular-season struggles, leaving the Dodgers well-positioned to sweep a fatigued Braves squad.

Dodgers starting pitcher Tarik Skubal yielded one run and struck out seven across six innings, while Teoscar Hernández and Max Muncy also homered for Los Angeles. After Braves infielder Ozzie Albies hit a two-run homer off Tanner Scott in the ninth inning, Evan Phillips secured the final out to close out the victory.