Will Smith's Clutch Performance Secures Dodgers' Sweep Over Diamondbacks

The Los Angeles Dodgers achieved a perfect start to their 2026 MLB season by sweeping the Arizona Diamondbacks, culminating in a 3-2 victory on March 28, 2026. The decisive moment came in the eighth inning when Dodgers catcher Will Smith hit a go-ahead two-run home run, marking a memorable birthday celebration for the player. This victory not only extended the Dodgers' winning streak to three games but also left the Diamondbacks winless at 0-3.

Will Smith belts go-ahead 2-run homer as Dodgers edge Diamondbacks 3-2Dodgers come back late to sweep DiamondbacksWill Smith bashes go-ahead Dodgers home run on his birthday, World Series bobblehead nightHeavyDodgers notes: Will Smith, Freddie Freeman, Tyler Glasnow

The game began with the Diamondbacks taking an early 2-0 lead, thanks to an RBI single from Pavin Smith and a sacrifice fly by Corbin Carroll. However, the Dodgers managed to respond with an unearned run in the sixth inning, following a fielding error by Carlos Santana, which allowed Freddie Freeman to hit an RBI double off reliever Jonathan Loaisiga.

Dodgers come back late to sweep Diamondbacks

In the eighth inning, with the Dodgers trailing 2-1, Smith stepped up to the plate against reliever Juan Morillo. After Mookie Betts walked, Smith launched a 98 mph fastball over center field, giving the Dodgers a 3-2 lead. Edwin Diaz then closed out the game in the ninth inning, securing his second save of the series.

Dodgers come back late to sweep Diamondbacks

Smith's performance was particularly noteworthy as it coincided with his 31st birthday and a bobblehead giveaway in his honor. After the game, Smith expressed his confidence in clutch situations, stating, “There’s nothing better than playing in front of our home fans… Late in innings, we never feel like we’re out of the game.” Manager Dave Roberts praised Smith's determination to play on his special night, emphasizing the importance of his clutch hitting.

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Freddie Freeman also highlighted the Dodgers' collective mentality, noting, “Everyone on our team could hit third in the lineup. Everyone wants that at-bat and that’s the key to our lineup.” This sentiment reflects the depth and resilience of the Dodgers' roster.

HeavyDodgers come back late to sweep DiamondbacksWill Smith belts go-ahead 2-run homer as Dodgers edge Diamondbacks 3-2Dodgers notes: Will Smith, Freddie Freeman, Tyler GlasnowWill Smith bashes go-ahead Dodgers home run on his birthday, World Series bobblehead night

Dodgers starter Tyler Glasnow delivered a solid performance, pitching six innings and striking out six batters, although he did not receive a decision. The bullpen continued to excel, maintaining a scoreless streak through the first three games of the season.

Will Smith belts go-ahead 2-run homer as Dodgers edge Diamondbacks 3-2

Despite the loss, Diamondbacks catcher James McCann acknowledged the competitive nature of the series, stating, “That’s a great team, but we also feel like we’re a good team.” Manager Torey Lovullo expressed frustration over the team's inability to secure a win despite performing well in several innings.

Dodgers come back late to sweep Diamondbacks

Following the series, the Dodgers will look to maintain their momentum, while the Diamondbacks will seek to regroup as they prepare for their home opener against the Detroit Tigers. The early season performance of both teams sets the stage for an intriguing continuation of the 2026 MLB season.

Dodgers come back late to sweep Diamondbacks

• “There’s nothing better than playing in front of our home fans here at Dodger Stadium.” — Will Smith, Dodgers Catcher

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• “Everyone on our team could hit third in the lineup. Everyone wants that at-bat and that’s the key to our lineup,” — Freddie Freeman, Dodgers First Baseman

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• “That’s a great team, but we also feel like we’re a good team,” — James McCann, Diamondbacks Catcher

Dodgers come back late to sweep Diamondbacks

• “So that’s frustrating. It’s very frustrating. But, the Dodgers were built this way. … This is a tough series. No doubt about it.” — Torey Lovullo, Diamondbacks Manager

Dodgers come back late to sweep Diamondbacks