Samuel Basallo shines with walk-off homer as Orioles edge Dodgers 2-1

In a thrilling MLB matchup at Oriole Park on Friday, September 5, 2025, the Baltimore Orioles defeated the Los Angeles Dodgers 2-1 thanks to a dramatic walk-off home run by rookie catcher Samuel Basallo.

Basallo’s solo homer came with two outs in the bottom of the ninth inning off Tanner Scott, the Dodgers' seventh pitcher, giving the Orioles their fourth consecutive victory. The 433-foot blast to right center field marked Basallo’s first career home run at Camden Yards and the Orioles’ first walk-off home run since Anthony Santander’s memorable hit last September.

The game featured strong pitching performances: Dean Kremer started for Baltimore, delivering three hitless innings before leaving due to right knee discomfort. He struck out four batters and allowed only one walk. Yennier Cano closed out the game, pitching a scoreless ninth to secure the win. For the Dodgers, starter Shohei Ohtani held the Orioles scoreless over 3 2/3 innings, while Freddie Freeman contributed with his 19th home run of the season in the sixth inning, tying the game at 1-1.

Despite these individual highlights, the Dodgers suffered their fourth straight loss, continuing their recent struggles against teams with losing records—which now stands at 4-13 in their last 17 such games. The Orioles, meanwhile, improved their standing with this important win, bringing their record to 65-76.

The match was marked by critical moments such as Matt Holliday's daring steal of home during the fifth inning, helping Baltimore secure the initial lead, and the resilience shown by rookie Basallo under pressure at the end. Fans and analysts alike have praised the young catcher’s clutch performance, signaling a promising future.

Following this nail-biting game, the Dodgers and Orioles are set to face off again in a series continuing through September 7. With momentum on their side, the Orioles aim to extend their winning streak, while the Dodgers seek to rebound and improve their postseason prospects.