Dodgers Win Battle vs. Padres in MLB’s Hottest Rivalry: ‘Playoff Atmosphere’

In a showdown befitting their emerging rivalry, the Los Angeles Dodgers claimed a thrilling 5–2 victory over the San Diego Padres in Game 3 of their series at Petco Park. Teoscar Hernández smashed a pivotal three-run homer in the sixth inning—his 11th of the season—to put the game out of reach  Rookie Ben Casparius delivered a strong start over four innings, while the Dodgers’ bullpen, including Alex Vesia’s clean ninth, secured the series sweep Humor and heart made headlines off the field too, as Kiké Hernández brought smiles with a goofy helmet during a blowout, capturing the fun side of this intense rivalry  With emotions and historical pride at a fever pitch, this series truly felt like a playoff-style battle—a high-stakes reminder of just how heated this I‑5 matchup has become