Dodgers' Lauer Secures Third Win With Opener Strategy He Once Disliked

Dodgers reliever Eric Lauer secured his third win of the season using an opener strategy he previously disliked, an approach praised for its control and adaptability. On June 23 (Korean time), Lauer entered in relief in the bottom of the second inning against the Minnesota Twins at Target Field in Minneapolis with the score tied 1-1. He pitched six hitless innings, allowing three hit-by-pitches and four walks while striking out two batters, and did not allow any runs. After he left in the bottom of the eighth with Los Angeles ahead 2-1, the bullpen preserved the one-run lead. Earlier this year, Lauer had been traded from Toronto to the Dodgers on May 18 for cash considerations, after expressing dissatisfaction with Toronto’s use of opener tactics. The game marked his first appearance as an opener with Los Angeles, with Dodgers manager Dave Roberts choosing the plan after considering Minnesota’s top hitters. The Dodgers reached 50 wins in both leagues with the victory.