In Los Angeles Dodgers history, this day is noteworthy for Johnny Podres, Hideo Nomo, Eric Gagne, Cody Bellinger and the 2020 World Series champion team.
On July 2, 1962, Podres tied the old MLB record of eight consecutive strikeouts in a 5-1 win over the Philadelphia Phillies. Podres did so by striking out Ted Savage with the third out in the top of the fourth inning.
Podres struck out Mel Roach in the top of the seventh, but the historic streak ended on a grounder. Podres finished with 11 strikeouts in 7.2 innings.
The MLB record for consecutive strikeouts in a game is 10, held by Tom Seaver (1970), Aaron Nola (2021) and Corbin Burnes (2011).
Nomo is an All-Star
On July 2, 1995, Nomo became the first Japanese player to be selected to the MLB All-Star Game. He started for the National League team representing the Dodgers, pitching two scoreless innings at The Ballpark in Arlington, allowing only one hit and striking out three.
Nomo went on to win the National League Rookie of the Year award, but was never selected to the All-Star Game again.
Gagne becomes fastest player to reach 30 saves
On July 2, 2002, the former Gagne became the fastest pitcher in MLB history to reach 30 saves in a 4–0 victory over the Arizona Diamondbacks. Gagne accomplished the feat in his 82nd game of the season for the Dodgers, tying his own MLB record in 2003.
Bellinger walks to win against Dodgers
On July 2, 2019, the Dodgers were down one run in the ninth inning against the Diamondbacks when they earned a walk-off win thanks to five consecutive walks. Cody Bellinger walked with the bases loaded to score the walk-off win.
It was the Dodgers’ second walk-off win since Bellinger drew his fourth walk against the Kansas City Royals.
Joe Kelly grabs attention with White House visit
On July 2, 2021, the Dodgers had the opportunity to visit the White House and celebrate their 2020 World Series championship.
Dodgers players met with President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris, who were presented with custom jerseys after Joe Kelly famously wore a mariachi jacket to the White House after forgetting his attire.
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