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  Los Angeles Angels’ Mike Trout, left, shakes hands with former Angels player Torii Hunter after Hunter threw the ceremonial first pitch before a baseball game against the Boston Red Sox, Saturday, April 6, 2024, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)

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  Los Angeles Angels starting pitcher Reid Detmers throws to a Boston Red Sox batter during the first inning of a baseball game Saturday, April 6, 2024, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)

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  Boston Red Sox starting pitcher Garrett Whitlock throws to a Los Angeles Angels batter during the first inning of a baseball game Saturday, April 6, 2024, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)

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  Los Angeles Angels’ Anthony Rendon, bottom right, is tagged out at second base by Boston Red Sox shortstop Pablo Reyes on a steal attempt during the first inning of a baseball game Saturday, April 6, 2024, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)

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  Boston Red Sox’s Jarren Duran, right, is tagged out by Los Angeles Angels second baseman Luis Rengifo on a steal attempt after Duran was caught off first during the third inning of a baseball game Saturday, April 6, 2024, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)

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  Boston Red Sox second base Enmanuel Valdez makes a throw to first base after a diving stop on a ground ball from Los Angeles Angels’ Luis Rengifo during the sixth inning of a baseball game Saturday, April 6, 2024, in Anaheim, Calif. Rengifo was safe with an infield hit on the play. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)

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  Los Angeles Angels’ Anthony Rendon follows through on a grounder during the sixth inning against the Boston Red Sox in a baseball game Saturday, April 6, 2024, in Anaheim, Calif. Red Sox third baseman Rafael Devers committed an error, allowing a run to score and Rendon to reach first. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)

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  Los Angeles Angels’ Anthony Rendon heads toward first after hitting a grounder during the sixth inning against the Boston Red Sox in a baseball game Saturday, April 6, 2024, in Anaheim, Calif. Red Sox third baseman Rafael Devers committed an error, allowing a run to score and Rendon to reach first. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)

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  Los Angeles Angels’ Mickey Moniak, left, is high-fived by manager Ron Washington after scoring on a ground ball by Anthony Rendon and a Boston Red Sox error during the sixth inning of a baseball game Saturday, April 6, 2024, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)

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  Los Angeles Angels center fielder Mike Trout, right, shakes hands with left fielder Taylor Ward after Trout’s leaping catch on a line drive from Boston Red Sox’s Jarren Duran during the eighth inning of a baseball game Saturday, April 6, 2024, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)

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  Los Angeles Angels relief pitcher Carlos Estevez, right, and catcher Logan O’Hoppe celebrate the Angels’ win over the Boston Red Sox in a baseball game Saturday, April 6, 2024, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)

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  Los Angeles Angels’ Mike Trout, left, Luis Rengifo (2) and Mickey Moniak (16) celebrate the Angels’ win over the Boston Red Sox in a baseball game Saturday, April 6, 2024, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)

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  Los Angeles Angels’ Mike Trout, right, and Anthony Rendon celebrate the team’s win over the Boston Red Sox in a baseball game Saturday, April 6, 2024, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)

ANAHEIM – Rarely has Reid Detmers been better, a 2022 no-hitter notwithstanding, with the offense finally able to show its appreciation in the later innings Saturday.

Detmers tied a career high with 12 strikeouts and the offense scratched out a pair of runs in the sixth inning as the Angels pulled out a 2-1 victory over the Boston Red Sox.

“The best thing I like about him is his poise,” manager Ron Washington said. “He’s as poised as they get and his confidence is sky high. The thing that I like is he’s using all parts of the strike zone.”

The same Red Sox offense that scored eight runs with nine hits in Friday’s series-opening victory struck out six times in the first two innings against Detmers. It was the fourth time in Detmers’ career he has recorded double-digit strikeouts.

“Sometimes those starts are kind of scary,” Detmers said about all of the early strikeouts while feeling comfortable on the mound. “You feel too good and stuff could get out of hand. But I could tell in the bullpen I was feeling pretty good. I just had to transfer it over to the game mound.”

And just when it looked like Boston’s single run in the third inning might befuddle the Angels all night, an unlikely two-out rally in the sixth inning emerged.

The first two Angels hitters went down easily in the sixth against Red Sox right-hander Greg Weissert. Then came an infield single from Luis Rengifo, who was promptly called out on a steal attempt of second base. But for the second time in the game, replay overturned an out call on an Angels steal attempt by second-base umpire Tony Randazzo.

Given new life, Mickey Moniak walked and Zach Neto followed with his own infield single to shortstop when Moniak outraced the throw on a force-out attempt to second base.

“(Moniak’s) speed played dividends for us tonight, beating that ball (to second base),” Washington said. “That was the biggest play of the game right there. Gave us another opportunity to try to do something with the bases loaded.”

After he delivered just his second hit from the leadoff spot when he singled in the first inning, Anthony Redon sent a bouncing ball to Red Sox third baseman Rafael Devers, who was unable to make the routine play, allowing two runners to score.

For Detmers (2-0), it was his second impressive start of the young season in two tries after he held the Baltimore Orioles to one run over five innings Sunday in the Angels’ first win of the season.

“You just have to keep it going and keep your confidence high,” said Detmers, who has 19 strikeouts in 11 innings. “Obviously there’s going to be ups and downs but I came into this year just telling myself, ‘You’ve got around 32 starts so just move on to the next.’ That’s kind of my mindset this year and so far it’s gone pretty well.”

In addition to just one walk allowed, Detmers gave up his lone run in six innings on three hits. In all four outings where Detmers has struck out 10 or more, he has allowed three hits or less. In three of those four he has allowed just a lone run.

Further appreciation for the outing came from the bullpen when Adam Cimber, Matt Moore and Carlos Estevez took down the final nine outs, with Estevez earning his third save in three chances. Angels pitchers combined for 14 strikeouts.

“Attacking the strike zone, getting guys to swing early and we just kept attacking,” Estevez said of the pitching staff. “What Detmers did out there was amazing. It was great to see that. And we showed him we had his back.”

The defense supplied its own tip of the cap when Mike Trout went to the warning track, just in front of the center field wall, to take away an extra-base hit from Jarren Duran for the third out of the eighth inning.

“Every play that was made out there, we needed,” Washington said. “It was a 2-1 ballgame. Every play we made we needed and we played great defense.”

The Angels are now 5-1 since Detmers made his season debut, with his next start in line to come next weekend, with the Angels in Boston.

The Angels rookie first baseman appeared to reach base in his 36th consecutive game with a walk on Friday against the Boston Red Sox. He was just two games away from the second-best on-base streak to begin a career in MLB history. Or so it seemed.

Late Friday, news began to trickle in that an MLB scoring change took a hit away from Schanuel last Saturday at Baltimore. A play that was once ruled an infield hit was ruled an error after an Orioles appeal.

Since it was actually the second change to a play, it meant that no more appeals could be accepted and the Angels were not allowed to request a further review of the situation.

“Disappointing, but time to move on,” Schanuel said Saturday.

It was a measured and professional response from the 22-year-old and a clear sign of just how he was able to transition into the major leagues so comfortably in the first place.

The play in question came in the ninth inning at Baltimore on Saturday, when it seemed that Schanuel kept the streak alive with a ground ball toward right field that Orioles first baseman Ryan Mountcastle stopped on a diving play. Mountcastle threw the ball to pitcher Mike Baumann, who couldn’t make the play while in a full sprint to the bag.

The play was originally ruled a hit and a throwing error on Mountcastle as Baumann was unable to come up with his low throw. The rare double change gave the error to Baumann instead.

“I don’t think it was right, but they are the decision makers,” Angels manager Ron Washington said. “I certainly wanted to see history continue. Scorekeeper made a call, another group made another call.”

Instead of extending his on-base streak to 36 consecutive games Friday, it was merely No. 5 for Schanuel.

The Angels are now tracking a different career-opening streak, with Schanuel entering Saturday’s game by reaching base via hit, walk, hit batter or error in those 36 games. Reaching by error does not factor into a player’s on-base percentage.

Only five times in Angels history has a player reached base via hit, walk, hit by pitch or error in more than 36 consecutive games, with Orlando Cabrera at the top of the list with 63 consecutive games in 2007. Mike Trout has streaks of 48 games (2013) and 40 games (2017).

HUNTER, GATHERER

Former Angels Gold Glove winning center fielder Torii Hunter has a new role in the organization as a special assistant to general manager Perry Minasian.

Hunter was a special instructor at spring training, saying at the time: “Full time? Not ready to do that. It could happen someday. We’ll see.”

A special assistant role offers more flexibility than say a job as a coach, something that came up over the winter after Washington was hired as manager. Hunter called that “a rumor.”

In five seasons with the Angels (2008-12), Hunter batted .286 with an .814 OPS and hit 105 home runs with 432 RBIs in 713 games. He was a Gold Glove winner in 2008 and 2009 to earn the last of his nine consecutive defensive honors.

Hunter made two of his five All-Star Games appearances in an Angels uniform.

Hunter played his first 12 seasons with the Minnesota Twins and had served as their special assistant in baseball operations since 2016.

Other former MLB players who serve as a special assistant to Minasian include Kurt Suzuki, Eddie Guardado and Chris Carpenter.

GOOD TO GO

Despite coming out of his first start of the season with a blister and a cracked fingernail, right-hander Chase Silseth is set to make his start Sunday against the Red Sox.

Silseth struggled to the tune of four runs (three earned) on five hits in three innings against the Miami Marlins on Monday. But Mike Trout rode to the rescue with two home runs and the Angels rallied for a 7-4 victory.

Silseth received permission to wear a protective covering on his finger for Saturday’s outing.

UP NEXT

Red Sox (RHP Tanner Houck (1-0, 0.00) at Angels (RHP Chase Silseth, 0-0, 9.00 ERA), Sunday, 1:07 p.m., Bally Sports West, 830 AM

Inside the oldest ballpark in the National League, Chicago Cubs fans will be bundled up to protect themselves against the chill while supplying their own frosty welcome.

Animosity toward the Dodgers is nothing new, but this is now the team that committed more than a billion dollars in future salary during the offseason and added the prize free-agent treasure this winter to a team that has made the playoffs in 11 consecutive years.

Well versed in postseason atmospheres, the Dodgers will see them all season long starting with their visit to Wrigley Field this weekend.

“I think everybody is ready and everybody knows what that tension is going to be, not only here but outside of L.A.,” Dodgers newcomer Teoscar Hernandez said after the Dodgers completed a 6-1 homestand while improving to 7-2 to start the season.

And just in time for a game in an away ballpark – outside of their two neutral-site games in March at Seoul, South Korea – is the arrival of the particular long-ball threat the Dodgers envisioned. Shohei Ohtani ended his eight-game homerless drought with a signature towering blast on Wednesday night in a victory over the rival San Francisco Giants.

But even with the 430-foot home run, Ohtani has a .432 slugging percentage, well below his .554 career mark and his baseball-best .654 number last season.

Mookie Betts and Hernandez have carried the offense early with a combined nine home runs and 21 RBIs over the first nine games. But Freddie Freeman, Will Smith and Max Muncy have just two combined home runs, while the bottom three spots in the order are batting a combined .250 with just three extra-base hits.

The Dodgers’ Death Star still isn’t fully operational and yet the team has at least five runs in all nine games, a franchise record that is approaching the MLB record of 13 such games to start a season set in 1932 by the New York Yankees.

“You’re never gonna have everyone lined up or synced up all at once,” said Dodgers manager Dave Roberts, whose team is averaging 6.3 runs per game. “But even right now, with some guys that are kind of scuffling or trying to find their swings, we’re still putting up five runs per game.

“I think it’s big for our starting pitching, and it’s big for our morale knowing that we can score early, we can score late. We’ve seen some good arms, and we’re still finding ways to put up crooked numbers, which is huge.”

More crooked numbers could be on the way, with the Cubs sporting a 4.19 staff ERA and the Dodgers holding a 4.06 mark, with both numbers in the bottom half of baseball.

The numbers guaranteed to be low are on the thermometer, with highs between 44 and 49 degrees awaiting on the weekend and a chance of rain approaching 70% on Sunday.

They are not the most ideal conditions for creating offense but that is the point. This offense has been designed to produce run-scoring chances amid any opposing force.

Ohtani’s early power drought was not as dire as it seemed. The start to any particular season has a way of skewing performance standards.

It might have been a career-long run of nine games at the outset before Ohtani went deep, but he has gone a full 24 games without a home run from the end of the 2022 season through the first two games of 2023.

His eight-game drought to begin this season was part of an 18-game run without a home run going back to last campaign. But he also had an 18-game homer drought in the 2019 season when he had just six extra-base hits.

Ohtani goes through power funks on occasion. It’s just that his baseball-best 11.3 home runs per at-bat last season made it seem like he doesn’t.

Roberts has been asked to put on his psychologist hat for the past two weeks in order to assess Ohtani’s mental state from his early-season performance and how it relates to expectation, the start of a run with a new group of teammates and the financial scandal that enveloped Ohtani at the start of the season.

Now that Ohtani’s first home run in a Dodgers uniform has arrived, Roberts was asked again to get into the mind of his new power hitter.

“I think there’s something to the human nature part of wanting to get off to a good start with a new team, and obviously with the contract and things like that,” Roberts said. “But I think most important is that we’re winning baseball games. I think that’s something that helps the transition or the weight that you might feel.

“As long as we keep winning, (we know) that he’s gonna perform at some point in time, and (Wednesday) was a really good step.”

By his own admission, Ohtani is feeling a sense of relief now, ready to take on the road trip and to deal with whatever he might encounter next.

“My impression was it was getting a little longer than my expectation,” Ohtani said through interpreter Will Ireton, about not clearing the outfield wall until the final game of the season’s third series. “During those situations, it’s easy to become anxious. I was overall relieved.”

UP NEXT

Dodgers (RHP Bobby Miller, 1-0, 0.00 ERA) at Cubs (RHP Kyle Hendricks, 0-1, 12.27 ERA), Friday, 11:20 a.m. PT, SportsNet LA, 570 AM

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  Shohei Ohtani #17 of the Los Angeles Dodgers celebrates with teammate Teoscar Hernandez #37 of the Los Angeles Dodgers after hitting a solo home run (first of the year) against the San Francisco Giants in the seventh inning of a baseball game at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. (Photo by Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News/ SCNG)

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  Shohei Ohtani #17 of the Los Angeles Dodgers watches his solo home run (first of the year) against the San Francisco Giants in the seventh inning of a baseball game at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. (Photo by Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News/ SCNG)

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  Teoscar Hernandez #37 of the Los Angeles Dodgers showers teammate Shohei Ohtani (not pictured) with sunflower seeds after hitting a solo home run (first of the year) against the San Francisco Giants in the seventh inning of a baseball game at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. (Photo by Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News/ SCNG)

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  Shohei Ohtani #17 of the Los Angeles Dodgers watches his solo home run (first of the year) against the San Francisco Giants in the seventh inning of a baseball game at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. (Photo by Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News/ SCNG)

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  Shohei Ohtani #17 of the Los Angeles Dodgers celebrates as he walks through sunflower seeds after hitting a solo home run (first of the year) against the San Francisco Giants in the seventh inning of a baseball game at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. (Photo by Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News/ SCNG)

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  Fans react as Shohei Ohtani #17 of the Los Angeles Dodgers rounds third base after hitting a solo home run (first of the year) against the San Francisco Giants in the seventh inning of a baseball game at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. (Photo by Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News/ SCNG)

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  Shohei Ohtani #17 of the Los Angeles Dodgers watches his solo home run (first of the year) against the San Francisco Giants in the seventh inning of a baseball game at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. (Photo by Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News/ SCNG)

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  Shohei Ohtani #17 of the Los Angeles Dodgers hits a solo home run (first of the year) against the San Francisco Giants in the seventh inning of a baseball game at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. (Photo by Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News/ SCNG)

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  Shohei Ohtani #17 of the Los Angeles Dodgers watches his solo home run (first of the year) against the San Francisco Giants in the seventh inning of a baseball game at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. (Photo by Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News/ SCNG)

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  Shohei Ohtani #17 of the Los Angeles Dodgers watches his solo home run (first of the year) against the San Francisco Giants in the seventh inning of a baseball game at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. (Photo by Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News/ SCNG)

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  Shohei Ohtani #17 of the Los Angeles Dodgers reacts after hitting a solo home run (first of the year) against the San Francisco Giants in the seventh inning of a baseball game at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. (Photo by Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News/ SCNG)

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  Shohei Ohtani #17 of the Los Angeles Dodgers celebrates with teammate Teoscar Hernandez (not pictured) of the Los Angeles Dodgers after hitting a solo home run (first of the year) against the San Francisco Giants in the seventh inning of a baseball game at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. (Photo by Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News/ SCNG)

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  Shohei Ohtani #17 of the Los Angeles Dodgers celebrates with teammate Freddie Freeman #5 after hitting a solo home run (first of the year) against the San Francisco Giants in the seventh inning of a baseball game at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. (Photo by Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News/ SCNG)

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  Shohei Ohtani #17 of the Los Angeles Dodgers watches his solo home run (first of the year) against the San Francisco Giants in the seventh inning of a baseball game at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. (Photo by Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News/ SCNG)

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  Starting pitcher Tyler Glasnow #31 of the Los Angeles Dodgers wipes his face after giving up a two run RBI single to Michael Conforto (not pictured) of the San Francisco Giants in the sixth inning of a baseball game at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. (Photo by Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News/ SCNG)

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  Starting pitcher Tyler Glasnow #31 of the Los Angeles Dodgers reacts after giving up a two run RBI single to Michael Conforto (not pictured) of the San Francisco Giants in the sixth inning of a baseball game at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. (Photo by Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News/ SCNG)

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  Michael Conforto #8 of the San Francisco Giants watches his two RBI single against the Los Angeles Dodgers in the sixth inning of a baseball game at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. (Photo by Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News/ SCNG)

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  Shohei Ohtani # 17 of the Los Angeles Dodgers reacts as she swings through a pitch against the San Francisco Giants in the third inning of a baseball game at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. (Photo by Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News/ SCNG)

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  Shohei Ohtani #17 of the Los Angeles Dodgers watches his solo home run (first of the year) against the San Francisco Giants in the seventh inning of a baseball game at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. (Photo by Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News/ SCNG)

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  Pitching coach Mark Prior meets with starting pitcher Tyler Glasnow #31 of the Los Angeles Dodgers after giving up two runs against the San Francisco Giants in the sixth inning of a baseball game at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. (Photo by Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News/ SCNG)

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  Shohei Ohtani # 17 of the Los Angeles Dodgers reacts as he is brushed back by a pitch as catcher Patrick Bailey #14 of the San Francisco Giants waits for the ball in the third inning of a baseball game at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. (Photo by Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News/ SCNG)

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  Starting pitcher Tyler Glasnow #31 of the Los Angeles Dodgers throws to the plate against the San Francisco Giants in the sixth inning of a baseball game at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. (Photo by Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News/ SCNG)

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  Will Smith #16 of the Los Angeles Dodgers scores past catcher Patrick Bailey #14 of the San Francisco Giants on a RBI single by teammate Teoscar Hernandez (not pictured) in the third inning of a baseball game at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. (Photo by Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News/ SCNG)

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  Shohei Ohtani # 17 of the Los Angeles Dodgers reacts after scoring past catcher Patrick Bailey #14 of the San Francisco Giants on a double by teammate Will Smith (not pictured) in the third inning of a baseball game at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. (Photo by Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News/ SCNG)

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  Shohei Ohtani # 17 of the Los Angeles Dodgers reacts after scoring past catcher Patrick Bailey #14 of the San Francisco Giants on a double by teammate Will Smith (not pictured) in the third inning of a baseball game at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. (Photo by Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News/ SCNG)

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  Starting pitcher Kyle Harrison #45 of the San Francisco Giants throws to the plate against the Los Angeles Dodgers in the third inning of a baseball game at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. (Photo by Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News/ SCNG)

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  Shohei Ohtani # 17 of the Los Angeles Dodgers reacts after scoring past catcher Patrick Bailey #14 of the San Francisco Giants on a double by teammate Will Smith (not pictured) in the third inning of a baseball game at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. (Photo by Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News/ SCNG)

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  Will Smith #16 of the Los Angeles Dodgers scores past catcher Patrick Bailey #14 of the San Francisco Giants on a RBI single by teammate Teoscar Hernandez (not pictured) in the third inning of a baseball game at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. (Photo by Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News/ SCNG)

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  Shohei Ohtani # 17 of the Los Angeles Dodgers reacts after scoring on a double by teammate Will Smith (not pictured) against the San Francisco Giants in the third inning of a baseball game at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. (Photo by Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News/ SCNG)

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  Will Smith #16 of the Los Angeles Dodgers watches his RBI double against the San Francisco Giants in the third inning of a baseball game at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. (Photo by Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News/ SCNG)

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  Shohei Ohtani # 17 of the Los Angeles Dodgers reacts after scoring past catcher Patrick Bailey #14 of the San Francisco Giants on a double by teammate Will Smith (not pictured) in the third inning of a baseball game at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. (Photo by Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News/ SCNG)

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  Shohei Ohtani # 17 of the Los Angeles Dodgers reacts after scoring on a double by teammate Will Smith (not pictured) against the San Francisco Giants in the third inning of a baseball game at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. (Photo by Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News/ SCNG)

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  Will Smith #16 of the Los Angeles Dodgers hits a RBI double against the San Francisco Giants in the third inning of a baseball game at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. (Photo by Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News/ SCNG)

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  Shohei Ohtani # 17 of the Los Angeles Dodgers reacts after scoring past catcher Patrick Bailey #14 of the San Francisco Giants on a double by teammate Will Smith (not pictured) in the third inning of a baseball game at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. (Photo by Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News/ SCNG)

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  Shohei Ohtani #17 of the Los Angeles Dodgers strikes out against the San Francisco Giants in the first inning of a baseball game at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. (Photo by Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News/ SCNG)

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  Shohei Ohtani #17 of the Los Angeles Dodgers strikes out against the San Francisco Giants in the first inning of a baseball game at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. (Photo by Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News/ SCNG)

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  Right fielder Teoscar Hernandez #37 of the Los Angeles Dodgers looks on as a solo home run by Patrick Bailey (not pictured) of the San Francisco Giants goes into the stands in the third inning of a baseball game at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. (Photo by Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News/ SCNG)

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  Miguel Rojas #11 of the Los Angeles Dodgers grounds into a fielders choice as a run scores against the San Francisco Giants in the second inning of a baseball game at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. (Photo by Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News/ SCNG)

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  Shohei Ohtani #17 of the Los Angeles Dodgers singles against the San Francisco Giants in the third inning of a baseball game at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. (Photo by Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News/ SCNG)

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  Shohei Ohtani #17 of the Los Angeles Dodgers strikes out against the San Francisco Giants in the first inning of a baseball game at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. (Photo by Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News/ SCNG)

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  Shohei Ohtani #17 of the Los Angeles Dodgers strikes out against the San Francisco Giants in the first inning of a baseball game at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. (Photo by Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News/ SCNG)

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  Kiki Hernandez #8 of the Los Angeles Dodgers singles against three San Francisco Giants in the second inning of a baseball game at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. (Photo by Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News/ SCNG)

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  Shohei Ohtani #17 of the Los Angeles Dodgers singles as pitcher Kyle Harrison #45 of the San Francisco Giants waits for the throw in the third inning of a baseball game at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. (Photo by Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News/ SCNG)

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  Mike Yastrzemski of the San Francisco Giants walks toward the dugout after striking out against the Los Angeles Dodgers in the third inning of a baseball game at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. (Photo by Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News/ SCNG)

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  Starting pitcher Tyler Glasnow #31 of the Los Angeles Dodgers throws to the plate against the San Francisco Giants in the first inning of a baseball game at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. (Photo by Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News/ SCNG)

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  Starting pitcher Tyler Glasnow #31 of the Los Angeles Dodgers throws to the plate against the San Francisco Giants in the first inning of a baseball game at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. (Photo by Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News/ SCNG)

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  of the Los Angeles Dodgers of the San Francisco Giants in the xxx inning of a baseball game at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. (Photo by Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News/ SCNG)

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  Starting pitcher Tyler Glasnow #31 of the Los Angeles Dodgers throws to the plate against the San Francisco Giants in the first inning of a baseball game at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. (Photo by Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News/ SCNG)

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  Starting pitcher Tyler Glasnow #31 of the Los Angeles Dodgers throws to the plate against the San Francisco Giants in the first inning of a baseball game at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on Wednesday, April 3, 2024. (Photo by Keith Birmingham, Pasadena Star-News/ SCNG)

LOS ANGELES — It was finally vintage Shohei Ohtani on Wednesday with a loud crack, the arched back on his follow through and a high finish as the baseball soared deep into the night.

In his ninth game with his new team, Ohtani finally delivered his first home run in a Dodgers uniform and all seemed right again.

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts had been asked about Ohtani and his lack of power for days. And when one of the most anticipated of Dodgers home runs had cleared the wall in right-center field, the player who hit it was as stoic as ever.

Ohtani jogged the bases with nary an expression on his face and received his greeting at home plate from teammate Freddie Freeman. There was a shower of sunflower seeds from Teoscar Hernandez as he approached the dugout steps and then high-fives all around in the Dodgers’ dugout.

That the long ball came in a key moment only heightened the excitement for the Dodgers, who earned a 5-4 victory to complete a three-game sweep of the rival San Francisco Giants.

“Honestly very relieved that I was able to hit my first homer,” Ohtani said through interpreter Will Ireton. “It’s been awhile, and honestly my swing hasn’t been great. So, overall very relieved.”

Miguel Rojas, who also hit a home run on Wednesday, said the rest of the team might have felt even more satisfaction.

“It was nice to see that relief off his shoulders and his face, everything,” Rojas said. “It’s really hard. That guy works extremely hard to be a professional and deal with everything every single day. … I think it’s going to be huge now that he got the first homer out of the way and now he can just relax and play baseball.”

In exchange for the home run baseball to keep forever, Ohtani gave the fan who tracked it down, “A ball, two caps and a bat.”

It might seem a mere pittance for a player signed to a $700-million deal, but those are Ohtani mementos after all. He has been known to do magical things on a baseball field and the Dodgers hope this was the first of many.

Ohtani’s homer came one inning after the Giants had pulled with a run and threatened to steal a win before heading to San Francisco for their home opener. The Giants will have to limp back now, losers in five of seven games to open their season.

“You just never learn about a person until they go through some adversity, whether on the field or in this case off the field,” Roberts said when asked about all that Ohtani has been through of late from the expectations, to the slow start power wise and alleged financial fraud connected to a local bookmaker. “I’ve learned that he’s unflappable. He really is.”

Tyler Glasnow earned his second win in a Dodgers uniform by allowing three runs on four hits over six innings as he threw a season-high 100 pitches and seemed to fade late in his outing.

Glasnow (2-0) had seven strikeouts with two walks. The only hit he allowed over the first four innings was a home run in the third from No. 8 hitter Patrick Bailey.

“Two wins is great and obviously I’m not feeling perfect; I wish I was feeling perfect,” Glasnow said. “… When you aren’t feeling perfect, this is the best team to be on because there are so many guys on this time who are amazing.”

Rojas had an RBI ground out to go along with his second home run while starting at shortstop. Mookie Betts shifted to second base for the night and continued his torrid start on offense. His leadoff single in the first inning put him on base in seven of his nine opening at-bats this season.

Rojas gave the Dodgers their first run in the second inning on his run-scoring grounder before the Giants tied it on Bailey’s home run in the third.

Will Smith had an RBI double in the third inning and Hernandez followed him with an RBI single as the Dodgers extended their advantage to 3-1. Rojas’ home run in the fourth made it 4-1.

The Giants pulled within a run against Glasnow in the sixth inning when Michael Conforto hit a two-run single.

That set the stage for Ohtani, who ripped into a high 3-and-1 fastball from Rogers for a 430-foot blast that registered an exit velocity of 105.6 mph.

The home run came in the 41st plate appearance for the two-time American League MVP, who left the Angels after last season as a free agent and agreed to a record $700 million, 10-year contract with the Dodgers.

“Everyone was celebrating,” Hernandez said. “I think the whole team was happier than he was. I think for him it feels good to hit the first one and I think there’s many more to come.”

The home run, the 172nd of Ohtani’s MLB career, proved to be even more vital when Jorge Soler again brought the Giants to within a run at 5-4 in the eighth with his own blast, a 452-foot shot to left-center field.

New Dodgers right-hander Dinelson Lamet finished off the victory with a scoreless ninth inning for his first career save.

“Obviously it’s not just me,” Ohtani said. “Overall, the team was able to put up good offense today so I’m very relieved and happy.”

Shohei Ohtani crushes his first home run as a Dodger! pic.twitter.com/Riq4vqqeDr

— MLB (@MLB) April 4, 2024

Shohei Ohtani brought the Dodger Stadium crowd to its feet for the first time! pic.twitter.com/GqhQmcSMot

— MLB (@MLB) April 4, 2024

Highly decorated in his native Japan, where he was awarded the top pitcher in each of the past three seasons as well as MVP, Yamamoto had been far less intimidating to begin his major league career. That began to change last Saturday.

The right-hander gets another Saturday start when he faces the Chicago Cubs on the Dodgers’ upcoming road trip that also will include the team’s stop at Minnesota to face the Twins.

Yamamoto just unleashed a plus curveball and gave up just two hits over five scoreless innings against the St. Louis Cardinals during his first MLB win.

“I think my last outing went well and then for the next one, I think I had a pretty good preparation,” Yamamoto said through an interpreter on Wednesday after throwing a 20-pitch bullpen session. “I’m focusing on myself so that I can go out there and do what I can do.”

After an uneven spring when he had an 8.38 ERA over 9⅔ innings, Yamamoto then struggled in his major league debut in South Korea when he didn’t even make it to the second inning. The San Diego Padres rocked him for five runs on four hits and a walk in his one inning of work.

That 43-pitch outing led into his 68-pitch gem last week and leaves the Cubs with a lot to think about Saturday. Perhaps not coincidentally, Yamamoto made a subtle adjustment with his hands and success followed.

“I did make an adjustment when I was in the set position, but I was more focused on staying calm and executing my pitches,” Yamamoto said.

Now comes a trip to Chicago, where he likely will have to figure out a way to get past countryman Seiya Suzuki. The Cubs also have left-hander Shota Imanaga on their pitching staff.

“There won’t be many times to face them during the season, and meet them, so I’m looking forward to it,” Yamamoto said.

In Japan, Yamamoto followed the traditional plan of pitching one day a week. The Dodgers have adhered to that, at least through Saturday’s outing, using a bullpen day Tuesday to make sure there was a buffer day before the rotation turned over again.

Getting a week between outings will get tougher to accomplish beyond Saturday but Yamamoto will comply with whatever he is asked, directing all questions on his upcoming schedule to the coaching staff.

All Manager Dave Roberts would promise moving forward is that Bobby Miller will start Friday’s series opener at Chicago, followed by Yamamoto and Gavin Stone. James Paxton will take the opener at Minnesota, followed by Tyler Glasnow.

Yamamoto could be in line to start again against the Padres at home on April 12, although another bullpen day next week could push that one more day to a third consecutive Saturday start.

WAIT MODE

Still without a home run entering Wednesday night’s game against the San Francisco Giants, all eyes are on Shohei Ohtani, with Roberts saying his new star seems to be in a good place mentally.

Questions about Ohtani’s comfort level have been raised ever since news broke last month that as much as $4.5 million of his money had been wired to a local bookmaker. Ohtani said he was the victim of fraud perpetrated by former interpreter Ippei Mizuhara.

“As a coach, you can see players who are kind of antsy or wandering around aimlessly,” Roberts said. “But he’s very comfortable where he’s going so I don’t see any kind of anxiety or uncomfortableness from him at all.”

It is the first time in his major league career that Ohtani has gone his first eight games without hitting a home run. He hit two home runs in his eighth game of the 2022 campaign.

HEYWARD DOWN

As expected, outfielder Jason Heyward was placed in the injured list with lower back tightness and outfielder Taylor Trammell was activated after he was claimed Tuesday from the Seattle Mariners.

Heyward, 34, was 3 for 14 with two RBIs in four games to open the season after he hit 15 home runs in 124 games for the Dodgers last season.

Trammell, 26, is a former first-round draft pick of the Cincinnati Reds in 2016 and has 15 home runs in in 116 career games, all with the Mariners over the past three seasons in 116 games.

UP NEXT

After an off day on Thursday, it will be Dodgers (Bobby Miller, 1-0, 0.00 ERA) at Cubs (TBD), Friday, 11:20 a.m. PT, SportsNet LA, 570 AM

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  Los Angeles Dodgers Shohei Ohtani is greeted in the dugout after scoring against the St. Louis Cardinals during the sixth inning of a baseball game Sunday, March 31, 2024, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Jayne-Kamin-Oncea)

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  Los Angeles Dodgers Max Muncy celebrates after hitting a two-run home run in the eighth inning of a baseball game against the St. Louis Cardinals, Sunday, March 31, 2024, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Jayne-Kamin-Oncea)

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  St. Louis Cardinals starting pitcher Steven Matz follows through on a throw to a Los Angeles Dodgers batter during the first inning of a baseball game Sunday, March 31, 2024, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Jayne-Kamin-Oncea)

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  Los Angeles Dodgers starting pitcher Gavin Stone winds up during the second inning of the team’s baseball game against the St. Louis Cardinals, Sunday, March 31, 2024, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Jayne-Kamin-Oncea)

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  Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter Shohei Ohtani returns to the dugout after striking out during the fourth inning of the team’s baseball game against the St. Louis Cardinals, Sunday, March 31, 2024, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Jayne-Kamin-Oncea)

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  St. Louis Cardinals’ Victor Scott II, right, beats the throw to Los Angeles Dodgers catcher Austin Barnes to score during the third inning of a baseball game Sunday, March 31, 2024, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Jayne-Kamin-Oncea)

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  St. Louis Cardinals’ Brendan Donovan singles in a run during the fifth inning of the tema’s baseball game against the Los Angeles Dodgers, Sunday, March 31, 2024, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Jayne-Kamin-Oncea)

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  Los Angeles Dodgers second baseman can’t field a ball hit by St. Louis Cardinals’ Paul Goldschmidt during the fifth inning of a baseball game Sunday, March 31, 2024, in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Jayne-Kamin-Oncea)

LOS ANGELES — With the Dodgers’ 3-D lineup struggling to jump off the page, Teoscar Hernandez and Max Muncy finished off a stand-out day in a 5-4 victory Sunday over the St. Louis Cardinals.

Mookie Betts, Shohei Ohtani and Freddie Freeman sold the tickets then went a combined 1-for-11. The lone hit was an Ohtani double in the sixth inning that proved key when he scored on a Hernandez double to give the Dodgers their first run of the day.

The Dodgers trailed 4-2 in the eighth when Hernandez reached across the plate and lifted a home run to left field to bring the Dodgers within a run. Muncy, who didn’t even start the game against left-hander Steven Matz, still made an impact.

He entered the game in the sixth inning and delivered a pinch-hit single to load the bases in advance of an RBI ground out from James Outman for the second run.

In the eighth against Cardinals left-hander John King, it was vintage Muncy as he crushed a 2-1 slider into the seats in right, holding his pose for a split second before flipping his bat to the ground.

“It’s fun,” said Muncy, who conveyed that initially with his bat flip. “It felt good for me personally, but most importantly it gave our team a chance to win and that’s what I’ve always cared about the most, putting our team in the best position to win.”

The Dodgers’ comeback Sunday had its roots in a late charge Saturday that fell just short in an extra-inning loss to the Cardinals. The Dodgers trailed 5-2 in that game then tied it in the ninth with two runs.

“We might’ve lost last night, but we forced them to use a couple pitchers,” Muncy said. “They had to use their high-leverage lefty (JoJo Romero) for a second night in a row and that meant he was down today so that made it a little bit of an easier at bat for me.

“It’s just something that kind of goes unnoticed to a lot of people, but it’s something we take a lot of pride in around here. You have to fight every game and it can really help you out in a series.”

All that money, all that talent, all that expectation and the Dodgers were a handful of outs from dropping to 3-3 on the season and on national TV no less when all eyes were able to see the behemoth the Dodgers built, only to have it sputter until late.

In just a handful of late innings, Hernandez and Muncy made the Dodgers look even more formidable moving forward.

“It was really very quiet the first six innings and to put some crooked numbers up late and to look at potentially splitting a four-game series, to then winning three of four, that’s a big swing,” manager Dave Roberts said. “I’m happy for the guys.”

On Saturday, the Cardinals cashed in a hit batter, catcher’s interference and a balk for a five-run seventh inning that jump started their first victory of the season.

On Sunday it appeared like it would be more of the same misfortune. St. Louis had a broken-bat RBI single from Paul Goldschmidt, a sacrifice bunt to set up the second run and added two runs in the sixth. The first came when Brendan Donovan was hit by a pitch with the bases loaded before another catcher’s interference was called, this one on Austin Barnes, with Goldschmidt at the plate.

The Dodgers were staring up at a 4-0 deficit in the sixth inning. It was just the inspiration they needed.

“We have a pretty good team top to bottom, even the bench,” Hernandez said. “The guys are ready, they’re prepared, they know what we need to do and we’re ready for it.”

The Dodgers also got their first look at right-hander Gavin Stone in 2024, with the right-hander recording six strikeouts, while also giving up three runs on seven hits in five innings. After he was recalled before the game Nabil Crismatt (1-0) earned the win with two scoreless innings and Daniel Hudson pitched the ninth for his first save.

Still without a home run, Ohtani doubled to lead off the bottom of the sixth inning, went to third on a fly ball from Freddie Freeman and scored on a Hernandez double. Two batters later, Muncy had a pinch-hit single against right-hander Andrew Kittredge and Outman’s grounder made it 4-2.

Hernandez’s third home run of the season came off right-hander Andre Pallante in the eighth and was the prelude for Muncy’s moment.

“I mean, it was the epitome of our ballclub,” Roberts said. “The depth, the unselfishness. Everyone realizes that even though you don’t start, you can come back and still impact the game. No better example than what Max did today. Ready when called upon.”

One night after Joe Kelly struggled during the Cardinals’ seventh-inning rally, left-handed reliever Alex Vesia had his own issues. He replaced Stone in the sixth only to walk two of the first three batters he faced while loading the bases. He compounded the problem when he plunked Donovan to force in a run as St. Louis went up 3-0.

Because of Tommy John surgery and a concurrent flexor tendon repair, Buehler has not been on a major league mound since June 10, 2022. He appeared to be on track for a return late last season before deciding he was not at a point in his recovery where he could make a substantial impact on the team’s playoff drive.

Of course, the Dodgers have been here before. Buehler pitched two perfect innings of a Sept. 3 rehab start last year before deciding it was best to back off and shut down for the rest of the season.

Manager Dave Roberts said Sunday the goal is to build Buehler up to six innings and 90 pitches before he is back in the big leagues again. That would mean at least three more minor league outings.

That could signal a return as early as an April 19-21 home series against the New York Mets, although since the wait has been nearly two years to this point, adding a little more time wouldn’t be the worst idea.

“I think with Walker, he has so many different pitches and weapons and the most important part is the build up and the execution,” Roberts said. “Then, as you get out there further, it’s the results.

“The thing for him, and for us, is that he has to be built up to pitch a major league game.”

There were plenty of Easter eggs to uncover in Sunday’s outing at Tacoma like pitching into the fourth inning when the original estimate was three frames. There were two perfect innings to open the game and seven consecutive outs at the outset. And Buehler closed each of his first two innings on strikeouts.

Buehler now will return to Los Angeles for his between-start work, with his next outing expected to be with Oklahoma City at an undetermined date later this week.

WORKING MAN

Mookie Betts was participating in pregame drills with defensive coach Clayton McCullough, taking sharp grounders from close range to his backhand side part of his work.

Even as Betts absorbs himself in defense amid his full-time move to the infield, his offense has not been affected. In fact, Betts’ start at the plate has been somewhat historic, entering Sunday with home runs in four consecutive games.

According to STATS, Betts and Babe Ruth were the only two players to record nine or more hits, nine or more RBIs, six or more walks, four or more home runs and a .600 batting average or better in four consecutive games.

“And I just really respect the way that, he went out there publicly and said that playing a different position isn’t going to affect the offensive performance, and was never going to use the change in position as an excuse,” Roberts said. “And it showed to be true.”

YOU AGAIN?

New St. Louis Cardinals backup shortstop Brandon Crawford heard the boos from Dodgers fans Saturday and grinned while suggesting it actually warmed his heart on a cold and rainy night.

Crawford was playing in his 86th career game at Dodger Stadium but the first that wasn’t in a San Francisco Giants uniform.

“I was a little disappointed by the lack of boos at the start of the game so I was glad that I got some more later,” Crawford said. “Yeah, in a way it’s kind of nice. The (Dodgers-Giants) rivalry runs deep and I’m sure I will always get that here.”

PERSONNEL SHIFT

In order to get some bullpen coverage Sunday, after left-hander Ryan Yarbrough pitched three innings Friday and five pitchers covered five innings Saturday, the Dodgers selected the contract of right-hander Nabil Crismatt from Oklahoma City.

Kyle Hurt, who covered 2 2/3 of those five innings and took the loss Saturday, was optioned to Triple-A. Emmet Sheehan (shoulder) was moved to the 60-day injured list to make room on the 40-man roster.

Crismatt, 29, is set to make his Dodgers debut after pitching four seasons for the St. Louis Cardinals, San Diego Padres and Arizona Diamondbacks. He had a career-best 50 appearances (one start) for the Padres in 2022, going 5-2 with a 2.94 ERA.

Glasnow made his first home game with his hometown team one to savor when he gave up one run on two hits over six innings to earn the win in their 7-1 victory over the St. Louis Cardinals after pitching five solid innings in the season-opening victory against the San Diego Padres last week in Seoul, South Korea.

“The perspective of being on the mound was unique,” Glasnow said of being the pitcher in a game at Dodger Stadium instead of being in the stands as he was in his youth. “Normally you watch guys warm up before the game and then getting to warm up (as a player) and then going out on the mound, it was extremely special.”

The run support came in bunches as Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman hit home runs, as the mainstay duo continued to develop its partnership with Shohei Ohtani. The top three in the Dodgers’ order went a combined 5 for 8 with six runs scored and four RBIs.

Glasnow, a Hart High graduate, was acquired from the Tampa Bay Rays in a trade just before Christmas and he is proving to be just the gift the Dodgers needed at the top of the rotation.

That Glasnow has fashioned a 2.45 ERA in two starts with plenty of room for improvement, has made the Dodgers even more optimistic for the road ahead. The team’s two victories in three games this season have come when he has been on the mound.

“I think the thing that is most impressive is that he hasn’t had his best stuff yet – and those are his words; not to be arrogant,” Manager Dave Roberts said. “But even in Korea, his delivery wasn’t synced up with his big body. And today, there were a lot of good throws, but just (without) the command he’s gonna have and I’ve seen on video, and he still is pretty dominant. That, for me, is the takeaway.”

The only blemishes on Glasnow’s otherwise fulfilling day came from Goldschmidt, who had the only two hits off of him. A Goldschmidt single to right field in the first inning was followed by his home run to left in the fourth.

Goldschmidt’s third hit came in the ninth inning against Ryan Yarbrough, giving him all of his team’s hits in the game.

Goldschmidt’s 34 home runs against the Dodgers, as a member of the Arizona Diamondbacks and Cardinals, are his most against any club. His 19 home runs at Dodger Stadium are tied for his most at a visiting ballpark, while also hitting the same number at Cincinnati.

Consider Glasnow fully initiated now.

When he was locked in Thursday, the 6-foot-8 right-hander was using two versions of his slider for success. He had 13 swings and misses, with eight of them on the slider. A hard-breaking version was used to finish off strikeouts, while a subtler one was offered when he needed to be in the strike zone.

“I think, for the most part, (the slider) was probably my best pitch and then heater, curveball wasn’t that great until the end,” Glasnow said. “But I think, for the most part, I was able to throw strikes and stay in the zone.”

Catcher Will Smith was in the bullpen as Glasnow warmed up before the game, and if the pregame ceremony was spiking the right-hander’s adrenaline, Smith said it wasn’t visible.

“I didn’t see any nerves out there or anything,” Smith said. “He went out there and competed and put up a really good start.”

After two starts, Smith’s suspicions on Glasnow’s ability have been fully confirmed.

“Yeah, he’s really good,” said Smith, who agreed to a 10-year, $140 million contract extension on Wednesday. “He’s fun to catch and I’m glad he’s with us and I don’t have to face him at some point this year.”

Not only is Glasnow starting to reveal how much of a force he can be, he’s showing you really can go home again.

“I had a lot of people here today and it’s good to be home, for sure,” he said.

"It's great to be a starting pitcher behind a lineup like that." Tyler Glasnow on the #Dodgers electric offense and his #OpeningDay experience. pic.twitter.com/MOmP3SC7LL

— SportsNet LA (@SportsNetLA) March 28, 2024

Facing Tyler Glasnow is like … pic.twitter.com/piYregfZUJ

— MLB (@MLB) March 28, 2024

Three times in the past four seasons the Dodgers played their home opener at night, including the past two seasons, with the sun now set to shine Thursday upon at least three new players taking part in their first home game amid a spring atmosphere like no other.

Technically, the Dodgers already have played a home game, when they faced the San Diego Padres last Thursday in Seoul, South Korea. But that one was lost, literally and figuratively, in the cover of night.

This Thursday, Tyler Glasnow will return to his Southern California roots to throw the game’s first pitch, and what is anticipated to be many more as he takes over the lead spot in the starting rotation. Teoscar Hernandez, signed to round out the outfield with Mookie Betts’ move to the infield, also is expected to be in the lineup.

Then there is Shohei Ohtani, the biggest offseason prize of them all, who could use a return to normalcy as he settles into a new home in the designated hitter role.

Ohtani revealed some details this week of how he was a victim of financial fraud perpetrated by his former interpreter Ippei Mizuhara, with that money reportedly funneled to a Southern California bookmaker. Ohtani denied his involvement in sports betting.

If the Freeway Series was any indication, fans are ready to show their support, with plenty of cheers for the superstar at Dodger Stadium and Angel Stadium. His former home ballpark played a tribute video before his first at-bat Wednesday and a standing ovation from Angels and Dodgers fans ensued.

What to expect from the new trio in the home opener is difficult to predict. With a quick look to the past, here is a rundown of recent home openers and how some current Dodgers fared in their debut before the home faithful:

James Outman (2023)

Named the starting center fielder in his rookie season, Outman had a brief taste of the major leagues in 2022, playing in four late-season games with 16 plate appearances. But those games were all on the road.

His first home game was in the home opener last season and, after a third-inning walk and a fourth-inning strikeout, Outman hit a two-run home run to left-center on a full-count pitch from the Arizona Diamondbacks’ Cole Sluser. The Dodgers won, 8-2.

“I couldn’t stand still when they were doing all the (pregame) announcements, but once the game started, I settled in,” Outman said.

Freddie Freeman (2022)

Talk about making an early impression. In his Dodgers home debut, Freeman singled in the first inning against the Cincinnati Reds’ Luis Cessa and scored the first run of the season at home on a single by Justin Turner.

Freeman went 2 for 5 as the Dodgers finished off a 9-3 victory in another night opener.

Freeman will be playing in his first Dodgers daytime opener as a member of the home team Thursday.

Gavin Lux (2021)

Lux played in 42 games over the previous two seasons but was on the Opening Day roster for the first time in 2021. The season opener was played at Colorado, with Lux collecting an RBI among his two hits.

The home opener came in the eighth game of the season, with Lux batting sixth as the second baseman and going 0 for 3 on a day the Dodgers squeaked out a 1-0 victory over the Washington Nationals behind six solid innings from Walker Buehler and a sixth-inning home run from Justin Turner.

The 2021 home opener was the only one of the previous four that was played in daylight.

Will Smith (2021)

A full-time member of the roster by 2020, after making his major-league debut in 2019, Smith didn’t play in his first home opener until 2021 when he had the same fate as Lux by going 0 for 3 in a pitchers’ duel against the Nationals.

Smith made his mark that day by guiding Buehler, Victor Gonzalez, Blake Treinen and Corey Knebel to the shutout on eight Nationals hits, just one of which went for extra bases.

Smith would go on to hit a career-best 25 home runs that season as he began to establish himself as the rare catcher who is a solid on defense and as well as a middle-of-the-order threat.

Mookie Betts (2020)

The home Dodgers debut of the 2018 American League MVP came amid little pomp and circumstance as it was played in July and at night during the pandemic-shortened season, with no fans in the stands. He had a hit and a run scored in an 8-1 victory over the San Francisco Giants.

Betts ended up missing the 2021 home opener with an injury and didn’t get his first Dodgers home opener in front of fans until 2022 when he went 2 for 5 with an RBI.

Betts would later help the Dodgers to the World Series title in 2020, batting .296 with an .871 OPS in 18 postseason games, with two home runs and eight RBIs to go along with elite outfield defense.

Max Muncy (2019)

Seemingly out of nowhere, Muncy put together a strong spring and won the Dodgers’ starting first base job in 2019 as he went on to solidify himself as a left-handed power threat with 35 home runs that season and a 15th-place finish in NL MVP voting.

In the home opener, Muncy was trusted with the cleanup spot and he responded with a seventh-inning home run as the Dodgers rolled past the Diamondbacks, 12-5. He also had an RBI groundout in the first inning for the first run at home of the season.

That game also is known for two home runs from both Joc Pederson and Kiké Hernandez, as the Dodgers went deep eight times that day. It set the major-league record for home runs in a season opener and tied the franchise record for homers in any game.

Chris Taylor (2018)

After establishing himself as a utility-man supreme in 2017, Taylor got the start in center field during the 2018 home opener against the San Francisco Giants but did not have a hit out of the leadoff spot as the Dodgers dropped a 1-0 decision.

Taylor not only played 50 games in center field and 24 games in left that season, he spent 81 games at shortstop to prove himself invaluable, leading to his ninth season with the club in 2024.

Kiké Hernandez (2016)

Known for his versatility, Hernandez showed it in his first Dodgers home opener when he had two hits out of the leadoff spot in 2016, while starting in left field and moving to center field later in the game. The Dodgers fell to the Diamondbacks, 4-2.

Yet Hernandez’s first home opener at Dodger Stadium was far from his most memorable one. He made his mark on two others, like his two-homer game in 2019 and his five-RBI game in 2020 when he had a home run among his four hits against the Giants.

Clayton Kershaw (2010)

The player most synonymous with Dodger Stadium home openers, Kershaw hasn’t participated in one since 2018 but had long left his mark on them by that point. In that 2018 outing, he gave up one run over six innings but received no run support in a 1-0 loss.

His most famous appearance in a home opener came when he authored his own shutout against the Giants. In a 4-0 victory at home in 2013, Kershaw allowed just four hits in a complete game and broke open a scoreless tie in the eighth inning with a home run.

Kershaw’s first home opener came in 2010 at age 22, when he gave up two runs on three hits over 5⅓ innings with seven strikeouts and earned the win in a 9-5 victory over the Diamondbacks.

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  Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani tips his batting helmet to the crowd after a tribute video showing highlights from his six seasons with the Angels was shown on the scoreboard video screen during his first at-bat in the first inning of their exhibition game on Tuesday night at Angel Stadium. (Photo by Leonard Ortiz, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  A tribute video of Shohei Ohtani’s Angels career plays on the giant video screen during Ohtani’s first at-bat in the first inning of a Freeway game between the Dodgers and Angels on Tuesday night at Angel Stadium. (Photo by Leonard Ortiz, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  Angels starting pitcher Chase Silseth throws to the plate during their Freeway Series exhibition game against the Dodgers on Tuesday night at Angel Stadium. (Photo by Leonard Ortiz, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  Dodgers starting pitcher James Paxton throws to the plate during their Freeway Series exhibition game against the Angels on Tuesday night at Angel Stadium. (Photo by Leonard Ortiz, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  The Angels’ Miguel Sanó celebrates in the dugout after hitting a solo homer during the second inning of their Freeway Series exhibition game against the Dodgers on Tuesday night at Angel Stadium. (Photo by Leonard Ortiz, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  The Dodgers’ Will Smith (16) gets a high-five from teammate Shohei Ohtani (17) in the dugout after Smith homered during the fourth inning of their Freeway Series exhibition game against the Angels on Tuesday night at Angel Stadium. (Photo by Leonard Ortiz, Orange County Register/SCNG)

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  The Angels’ Anthony Rendon runs to first as he flies out against the Dodgers during the first inning of an exhibition baseball game Tuesday, March 26, 2024, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Ryan Sun)

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  Dodgers star Mookie Betts runs to first base in the fourth inning during an exhibition game against the Angels at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on March 26, 2024 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Katharine Lotze/Getty Images)

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  Angels starting pitcher Chase Silseth throws a pitch in the first inning of an exhibition game against the Dodgers at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on March 26, 2024 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Katharine Lotze/Getty Images)

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  The Dodgers’ Will Smith runs to first base after hitting a home run in the third inning of an exhibition game against the Los Angeles Angels at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on March 26, 2024 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Katharine Lotze/Getty Images)

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  Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani hits a foul ball during the first inning of an exhibition game against the Angels at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on March 26, 2024 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Katharine Lotze/Getty Images)

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  The Angels’ Taylor Ward slides home to score a run during the first inning of an exhibition game against the Dodgers at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on March 26, 2024 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Katharine Lotze/Getty Images)

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  The Angels’ Mike Trout reacts after a pitch during the first inning of the team’s exhibition baseball game against the Dodgers on Tuesday, March 26, 2024, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Ryan Sun)

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  Dodgers designated hitter Shohei Ohtani gestures in the dugout during the first inning of an exhibition baseball game against the Angels on Tuesday, March 26, 2024, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Ryan Sun)

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  Dodgers designated hitter Shohei Ohtani stands in the dugout during the first inning of an exhibition baseball game against the Angels on Tuesday, March 26, 2024, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Ryan Sun)

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  Dodgers designated hitter Shohei Ohtani gestures to the crowd before batting against the Angels during the first inning of an exhibition baseball game Tuesday, March 26, 2024, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Ryan Sun)

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  Dodgers designated hitter Shohei Ohtani reacts to a pitch during the first inning of the team’s exhibition baseball game against the Angels, Tuesday, March 26, 2024, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Ryan Sun)

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  Angels starting pitcher Chase Silseth throws to a Dodgers batter during the first inning of an exhibition baseball game Tuesday, March 26, 2024, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Ryan Sun)

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  Dodgers starting pitcher James Paxton throws to an Angels batter during the first inning of an exhibition baseball game Tuesday, March 26, 2024, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Ryan Sun)

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  Angels star Mike Trout runs to first base during an exhibition game against the Dodgers at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on March 26, 2024 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Katharine Lotze/Getty Images)

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  The Angels’ Mike Trout, left, is greeted by Dodgers first baseman Freddie Freeman after drawing a walk during the first inning of an exhibition baseball game Tuesday, March 26, 2024, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Ryan Sun)

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  The Angels’ Mike Trout runs to score off a double hit by Brandon Drury against the Dodgers during the first inning of an exhibition baseball game Tuesday, March 26, 2024, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Ryan Sun)

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  Dodgers starting pitcher James Paxton throws a pitch in the second inning of an exhibition game against the Angels at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on March 26, 2024 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Katharine Lotze/Getty Images)

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  The Dodgers’ Will Smith hits a home run in the third inning of an exhibition game against the Los Angeles Angels at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on March 26, 2024 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Katharine Lotze/Getty Images)

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  The Dodgers’ Gavin Lux, right, is greeted by third base coach Dino Ebel as he circles the bases after hitting a home run in the sixth inning during an exhibition game against the Angels at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on March 26, 2024 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Katharine Lotze/Getty Images)

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  Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani removes his helmet in the dugout after striking out in the third inning during an exhibition game against the Angels at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on March 26, 2024 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Katharine Lotze/Getty Images)

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  Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani looks on after striking out in the third inning during an exhibition game against the Angels at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on March 26, 2024 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Katharine Lotze/Getty Images)

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  Dodgers star Mookie Betts at bat during the third inning against the Angels at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on March 26, 2024 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Katharine Lotze/Getty Images)

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  The Angels’ Anthony Rendon at bat during the third inning of an exhibition game against the Dodgers at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on March 26, 2024 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Katharine Lotze/Getty Images)

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  Angels star Mike Trout at bat during the third inning of an exhibition game against the Dodgers at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on March 26, 2024 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Katharine Lotze/Getty Images)

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  Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani strikes out in the third inning of an exhibition game against the Angels at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on March 26, 2024 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Katharine Lotze/Getty Images)

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  The Dodgers’ Freddie Freeman reacts with teammates in the dugout after hitting a home run in the third inning of an exhibition game against the Angels at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on March 26, 2024 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Katharine Lotze/Getty Images)

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  The Dodgers’ Freddie Freeman, right, high-fives teammate Will Smith #16 at home plate after Freeman hit a home run in the third inning of an exhibition game against the Angels at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on March 26, 2024 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Katharine Lotze/Getty Images)

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  The Dodgers’ Will Smith reacts in the dugout with teammates after hitting a home run in the third inning of an exhibition game against the Los Angeles Angels at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on March 26, 2024 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Katharine Lotze/Getty Images)

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  Angels starting pitcher Reid Detmers throws to the plate during the fourth inning of their exhibition game against the Dodgers on Monday night at Dodger Stadium. (Photo by Michael Owens/Getty Images)

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  Dodgers designated hitter Shohei Ohtani gestures in the dugout during the fourth inning of the team’s exhibition baseball game against the Angels, Tuesday, March 26, 2024, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Ryan Sun)

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  The Dodgers’ Will Smith is congratulated for his home run against the Angels during the fourth inning of an exhibition baseball game Tuesday, March 26, 2024, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Ryan Sun)

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  The Dodgers’ Will Smith runs hitting a home run during the fourth inning of the team’s exhibition baseball game against the Angels, Tuesday, March 26, 2024, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Ryan Sun)

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  The Dodgers’ Freddie Freeman is congratulated for his home run against the Angels during the fourth inning of an exhibition baseball game Tuesday, March 26, 2024, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Ryan Sun)

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  The Dodgers’ Freddie Freeman, right, celebrates his home run against the Angels with Will Smith during the fourth inning of an exhibition baseball game Tuesday, March 26, 2024, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Ryan Sun)

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  Dodgers designated hitter Shohei Ohtani strikes out swinging during the fourth inning of the team’s exhibition baseball game against the Angels, Tuesday, March 26, 2024, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Ryan Sun)

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  The Dodgers’ Gavin Lux celebrates his home run against the Angels during the sixth inning of an exhibition baseball game Tuesday, March 26, 2024, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Ryan Sun)

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  Angels star Mike Trout at bat during the sixth inning during an exhibition game against the Dodgers at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on March 26, 2024 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Katharine Lotze/Getty Images)

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  The Angels’ Zach Neto acknowledges the crowd as he scores the game-winning run in the ninth inning during an exhibition game against the Dodgers at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on March 26, 2024 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Katharine Lotze/Getty Images)

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  Dodgers first baseman Freddie Freeman, right, warms up with third base coach Dino Abel before a spring training game against the Angels on Tuesday, March 26, 2024, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Ryan Sun)

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  Angels star Mike Trout, left, and Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani embrace ahead of their exhibition game on Tuesday night at Angel Stadium. (Photo by Katharine Lotze/Getty Images)

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  Angels right fielder Aaron Hicks, left, speaks with Dodgers designated hitter Shohei Ohtani before an exhibition baseball game, Tuesday, March 26, 2024, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Ryan Sun)

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  Angels star Mike Trout blows a bubble ahead of an exhibition game against the Dodgers at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on March 26, 2024 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Katharine Lotze/Getty Images)

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  The Angels’ Brandon Drury, left, greets Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani on the field ahead of an exhibition game on Tuesday at Angel Stadium. (Photo by Katharine Lotze/Getty Images)

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  Dodgers manager Dave Roberts looks on ahead of an exhibition game against the Angels at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on March 26, 2024 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Katharine Lotze/Getty Images)

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  Angels outfielder Aaron Hicks, left, greets Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani on the field ahead of an exhibition game on Tuesday night at Angel Stadium. (Photo by Katharine Lotze/Getty Images)

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  Dodgers designated hitter Shohei Ohtani, left, speaks with center fielder James Outman before an exhibition baseball game against the Angels on Tuesday, March 26, 2024, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Ryan Sun)

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  Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani looks on in the dugout during an exhibition game against the Angels at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on March 26, 2024 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Katharine Lotze/Getty Images)

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  Dodgers designated hitter Shohei Ohtani (17), center fielder James Outman (33) and shortstop Chris Taylor (3) stand during the national anthem before the team’s exhibition baseball game against the Angels on Tuesday, March 26, 2024, in Anaheim, Calif. (AP Photo/Ryan Sun)

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  Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani looks on in the dugout during an exhibition game against the Angels at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on March 26, 2024 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Katharine Lotze/Getty Images)

ANAHEIM — With the final game of spring training on the line, Dodgers prospect Jared Karros took the mound against the Angels with a keen observer watching from the television booth upstairs.

Former Dodgers star Eric Karros was doing color commentary for SportsNet LA when his son and former 16th-round draft pick in 2022 stepped on the mound in a major league stadium.

Never mind that it was an exhibition game, there were plenty of midseason nerves.

“So Howie Long, I work with him at FOX and we cross over in September with football and baseball,” Eric Karros said. “He had two kids play at the highest level (in the NFL).

“I remember talking to him about watching your kid and he said, ‘It’s like when you played and get ready for a game and have all this adrenaline and then you can go release it out on the field. Watching your kid, you get all this adrenaline and you just have to sit and you can’t let it loose. It eats you up inside.’ And that’s exactly what it is.”

The younger Karros walked Matt Thaiss to open the inning before finding his stride. He got Zach Neto to fly out to left field, retired Jack Lopez on another fly ball to left and ended the seventh inning when Jo Adell was called out on strikes.

As the son walked off the mound as the picture of calm, dad stood up in the booth and applauded his approval.

Back out to pitch again in the eighth inning, Jared Karros gave up a hit but struck out the side by retiring three projected Angels regulars in Mickey Moniak, Taylor Ward and Nolan Schanuel.

Again the older Karros rose to his feet, letting out shouts of approval while thrusting his fist into the air.

As for that rule of never cheering in the press box?

“I told them they can take my press credential away,” Eric Karros said with a laugh.

Jared Karros pitched in 19 games (16 starts) at Class-A Rancho Cucamonga last season with a 3.95 ERA but has not yet learned of his minor league assignment for this season.

“To watch this, and especially to see him succeed and have the type of outing he did, it’s something I’m always going to remember,” said Karros, who holds the Los Angeles Dodgers record of 270 home runs. “The gamut of emotion probably went from puking to crying to screaming. All over the map.”

While Jared Karros kept it close for the Dodgers, the Angels still won the game, 4-3, in the ninth against Dodgers left-hander John Rooney, when Zach Neto tripled with two outs and Lopez ended the game with a bloop RBI single to left.

It was the Angels who leaned into their offense first, getting a two-run double from Brandon Drury in the first inning and a towering home run from Miguel Sanó to left field in the second inning for a 3-0 lead. All three runs came off Dodgers starter James Paxton.

Sano had been told he made the Opening Day roster by Manager Ron Washington after Monday’s game at Dodger Stadium.

The Dodgers used their power to get back into the game with Freddie Freeman and Will Smith hitting back-to-back home runs in the fourth inning to pull within a run. The Dodgers tied it in the sixth on a home run to center field from Gavin Lux.

Paxton gave up three runs on four hits over five innings of his final spring start, with two walks and two strikeouts. He is expected to start the fifth game of the Dodgers’ season-opening homestand on Monday against the San Francisco Giants.

Angels starter Chase Silseth gave up two runs on two hits over five innings with no walks, while showing his potential with 10 strikeouts.

“I put a lot into today,” Silseth said. “It felt like the real thing today, which is good. I was ready. I’m ready now (to) hit the ground running.”