Sunday, Oct 10, 2021. 8:02 PM
LOS ANGELES – Alex Wood returns home to start the third game of the National Sectionals at Dodger Stadium. In the uniform of the San Francisco Giants.
The former Los Angeles Dodgers will be the starter for his team on Monday night as he takes on ace Max Scherzer. The series is equal 1-1.
Wood was a key member of the Dodgers’ succession last year as they conquered the World Series. As a free agent, he signed a contract with the Giants and he wanted to start again.
Wood is 10-4 with a 3.83 earned-run average in 26 starts this season. In three outings against his former team, the left-hander has suffered two losses. He pitched for six innings in the three starts, allowing nine runs.
“If you look at Wood’s playoff numbers, he’s been amazing. Whether it’s a starter or a reliever, said Giants pitcher Kevin Gausman. It’s going to be a good matchup and I’m excited to see Woody work. “
The Giants need to win one of the next two duels in Los Angeles to ensure the series returns to San Francisco for the ultimate game. They triumphed 4-0 in raising the curtain before losing 9-2.
Wood was the obvious choice when the stakes were high. He was successful after losing to the Giants and the team went 12-1 in that situation.
“He just pitched really well for us, especially late in the season,” said Giants manager Gabe Kapler. He’s one of our top three pitchers right now. “
Wood could also benefit from the experience and comfort of Dodger Stadium. He spent four seasons with the Dodgers, taking part in their starting rotation after being drafted by the Atlanta Braves.
Wood was selected for the All-Star Game in 2017, when he started the season in the bullpen before becoming a starter. He became the first Dodgers pitcher to start a campaign with a 10-0 record since Don Newcombe in 1955.
