Dodger outfielder Tucker's double start in playoff game helps team win

Tucker. (Reuters)

[Sports Center/Comprehensive Report] The Dodgers defeated the Warriors 5:3 in G1 of the Division Series today. Star outfielder Kyle Tucker maintained his hot touch at the end of the regular season. He hit a 2-run shot today, had 4 hits, 2 hits, and 1 stolen base in a single game. This was the first time in his postseason career that he started the game and reached base in the same game. He also gave a domineering speech after the game.

The Dodgers gave Tucker a four-year, US$240 million (approximately NT$7.6 billion) sky-high contract in the off-season, but his firepower did not meet the expectations at all, and he even performed a "shock glove" on the defensive end. Tucker played 154 games this season, hitting .233/.330/.385, offensive index 0.715, 17 home runs, 70 RBIs, and an OPS+ of 97, which is lower than the league average.

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However, Tucker made a wild comeback in September, scoring 6 home runs in 25 games, with an attack index as high as 0.889. Today, when Tucker led by 1 point in the bottom of the 6th inning, he blasted a 408-foot 2-point cannon from Warriors right-hander AJ Smith-Shawver to help the Dodgers expand their lead. These 2 points also became the key insurance points for the Dodgers' final victory.

Tucker was interviewed on the sidelines after the game and said: "It's great. You play for this stage and you also want to win the World Series, and this year we have the opportunity to accomplish something special. So I will try my best to work towards this goal." When it comes to starting the bombing in the 6th inning, Tucker said that he just chooses the ball to attack, and tries to hit the ball solidly to continue the offensive.

"Spanish teacher" Teoscar Hernández, who scored a 2-point shot for Centro today, was also excited for Tucker after the game. "I think I may be happier than him. We have gone through a lot this year, but we have always supported each other." Head coach Dave Roberts also said: "Everyone is focusing on his low point this year. I am very sure of his performance throughout the whole process. He did not avoid problems, continued to play, and finally got out of that low point."