The rivalry between the Cincinnati Reds and the Los Angeles Dodgers is a tale of two storied franchises in Major League Baseball (MLB).
With deep-rooted histories and passionate fan bases, these teams have clashed in numerous unforgettable matchups over the years.
From classic regular-season duels to high-stakes playoff battles, the Reds and Dodgers have woven a tapestry of competition and drama.
This intriguing rivalry features legendary players, iconic moments, and intense emotions, captivating baseball enthusiasts across generations.
As they continue to face each other with unwavering zeal, the Cincinnati Reds vs. Los Angeles Dodgers rivalry remains a timeless and cherished aspect of America’s favorite pastime.
History: Cincinnati Reds Vs Los Angeles Dodgers
The Cincinnati Reds and the Los Angeles Dodgers are two iconic franchises in Major League Baseball (MLB) with rich histories and distinct characteristics.
Let’s compare their histories to understand how these teams stack up against each other
Foundation and Relocation
Cincinnati Reds: The Reds were established in 1881 as one of the founding members of the American Association, making them one of the oldest baseball franchises.
They moved to the National League in 1890 and have been a part of the NL ever since. The team has always been based in Cincinnati, Ohio.Los Angeles Dodgers: The Dodgers were founded in 1883 as the Brooklyn Atlantics, joining the National League in 1890.
They played in Brooklyn, New York, until they relocated to Los Angeles in 1958, becoming the first MLB team on the West Coast.
Championships
Cincinnati Reds: The Reds have won a total of five World Series titles (1919, 1940, 1975, 1976, and 1990).
The two back-to-back championships in the 1970s, known as the “Big Red Machine” era, were particularly impressive.Los Angeles Dodgers: The Dodgers have one of the most decorated histories in baseball, with a total of seven World Series titles (1955, 1959, 1963, 1965, 1981, 1988, and 2020).
They have consistently been contenders for championship titles throughout their existence.
Ballpark Legacy
Cincinnati Reds: The Reds played at the iconic Riverfront Stadium from 1970 to 2002, which was later renamed Cinergy Field. Since 2003, they have been playing their home games at Great American Ball Park.
Los Angeles Dodgers: The Dodgers’ former home in Brooklyn, Ebbets Field, was an iconic stadium in its time.
In Los Angeles, they initially played at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum before moving to Dodger Stadium in 1962. Dodger Stadium is now one of the oldest and most beloved ballparks in MLB.
Fanbase: Cincinnati Reds Vs Los Angeles Dodgers
Cincinnati Reds
The Cincinnati Reds have a dedicated and loyal fan base, particularly in the city of Cincinnati and the surrounding region. Cincinnati has a rich baseball tradition, and the Reds’ deep-rooted history as one of the oldest baseball franchises in the country has created a strong sense of identity and pride among their fans.
Reds fans are known for their unwavering support, even during the team’s less successful seasons.
The Reds’ fan base is often referred to as “The Reds Family,” emphasizing the close-knit nature of their community. Reds fans are known for their love of the game, their knowledge of baseball history, and their appreciation for the team’s legends, such as Johnny Bench, Pete Rose, and Joe Morgan.
Los Angeles Dodgers
The Los Angeles Dodgers have one of the largest and most diverse fan bases in Major League Baseball. Their move from Brooklyn to Los Angeles in 1958 expanded their reach to the West Coast, and they have since built a massive following that extends well beyond Southern California.
The Dodgers’ popularity in Los Angeles is amplified by the city’s large and diverse population, as well as its status as a global entertainment and media hub.
Dodgers fans are known for their passion and enthusiasm, filling the iconic Dodger Stadium year after year. The stadium’s scenic location and its history as one of the oldest ballparks in MLB contribute to its reputation as a must-visit destination for baseball fans.
The Dodgers’ success on the field, including multiple World Series titles, has also helped solidify their fan base and attract new followers.
Iconic Moments: Cincinnati Reds Vs Los Angeles Dodgers Rivalry
The Cincinnati Reds vs. Los Angeles Dodgers rivalry has produced several iconic moments over the years, with both teams clashing in critical games and playoff series.
Here are some of the most memorable moments from their rivalry
1970 NLCS Game 3
In the 1970 National League Championship Series, the Reds faced the Dodgers in a decisive Game 3. With the series tied 1-1, this game went to extra innings.
In the top of the 12th inning, Reds outfielder Bernie Carbo hit a clutch three-run homer, propelling Cincinnati to a 5-1 victory and securing their spot in the World Series.
1973 NLCS Game 5
The Reds and Dodgers met again in the 1973 NLCS, which turned into an epic five-game series. In Game 5, Dodgers pitcher Tommy John and Reds pitcher Ross Grimsley engaged in a memorable pitching duel.
The game was tied 3-3 until the 12th inning, when Dodgers catcher Joe Ferguson hit a dramatic walk-off homer to give Los Angeles the series win.
1995 NLDS Game 1
The Reds and Dodgers faced off in the 1995 National League Division Series. In Game 1, the Dodgers’ Hideo Nomo pitched a no-hitter, becoming the first Japanese pitcher to achieve this feat in MLB history.
Nomo’s performance set the tone for the series, which the Dodgers ultimately won.
2013 Regular Season
During the 2013 regular season, the Reds and Dodgers engaged in a memorable moment involving a bench-clearing brawl. After Dodgers pitcher Zack Greinke hit Reds outfielder Shin-Soo Choo with a pitch, tensions escalated, leading to a scuffle on the field.
The incident further intensified the rivalry and added fuel to the competitive fire between the teams.
2020 Nl Wild Card Series Game 2
In the expanded playoffs format during the pandemic-shortened 2020 season, the Reds and Dodgers met in the Wild Card Series. Game 2 of the series turned into an epic pitchers’ duel between the Reds’ Trevor Bauer and the Dodgers’ Clayton Kershaw.
Both pitchers put on a masterful display, with Bauer throwing 7.2 scoreless innings and Kershaw tossing eight shutout innings. The game remained scoreless until the bottom of the 13th inning when Dodgers infielder Cody Bellinger hit a walk-off home run to seal the series victory for Los Angeles.
Recent Performance: Cincinnati Reds Vs Los Angeles Dodgers
Game 1 (Apr 14, 2022) – Dodgers 9, Reds 3
The Dodgers dominated the first game of the season series, securing a convincing 9-3 victory at Dodger Stadium. Julio Urias pitched six solid innings, and the Dodgers’ offense was led by Chris Taylor, Max Muncy, and Mookie Betts, who each contributed with key hits and home runs.
Game 2 (Jun 23, 2022) – Reds 10, Dodgers 5
The Reds came out swinging in the second game, overwhelming the Dodgers with an impressive six-run first inning.
Tyler Mahle delivered a solid pitching performance for the Reds, and their offense was on fire with four home runs, including a two-run shot by Matt McLain and a pair of solo homers by Elly De La Cruz.
Game 3 (Jun 24, 2022) – Reds 4, Dodgers 3
In a closely contested third game, the Reds held on to secure a 4-3 victory at Dodger Stadium. Clayton Kershaw had a strong outing for the Dodgers, but the Reds’ bullpen managed to preserve the lead.
The Reds’ offense, fueled by timely hitting, proved enough to secure the series win.
Cincinnati Reds Vs Los Angeles Dodgers Rivalry
| Season | Date | Venue | Winner | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1970 | Oct 11 | Crosley Field (CIN) | Cincinnati Reds | 5-1 |
| 1973 | Oct 7 | Riverfront Stadium | Los Angeles Dodgers | 7-5 (12) |
| 1995 | Sep 17 | Dodger Stadium | Los Angeles Dodgers | 7-1 |
| 2013 | Jun 11 | Dodger Stadium | Cincinnati Reds | 5-2 |
| 2015 | May 26 | Great American Ball Park (CIN) | Los Angeles Dodgers | 8-2 |
| 2020 | Oct 1 | Globe Life Field (Arlington) | Los Angeles Dodgers | 3-0 (13) |
FAQs
When did the Cincinnati Reds and Los Angeles Dodgers first meet in MLB?
The Cincinnati Reds and Los Angeles Dodgers first met in Major League Baseball (MLB) during the 1890 season when both teams were part of the National League.
How many World Series titles have the Cincinnati Reds and Los Angeles Dodgers won?
The Cincinnati Reds have won a total of five World Series titles, while the Los Angeles Dodgers have won seven World Series titles.
What is the most iconic moment in the Cincinnati Reds vs. Los Angeles Dodgers rivalry?
One of the most iconic moments in their rivalry was during Game 1 of the 1988 World Series when Dodgers’ Kirk Gibson hit a dramatic walk-off home run while battling injuries, securing a memorable victory.
Do the Cincinnati Reds and Los Angeles Dodgers have a long-standing rivalry?
Yes, the Reds and Dodgers have a long-standing rivalry due to their multiple playoff matchups and competitive games throughout their respective histories.
What is the home stadium of the Cincinnati Reds and the Los Angeles Dodgers?
The Cincinnati Reds play their home games at Great American Ball Park in Cincinnati, Ohio, while the Los Angeles Dodgers play at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, California.
To Recap
The rivalry between the Cincinnati Reds and the Los Angeles Dodgers is a compelling chapter in baseball history.
With passionate fan bases, iconic players, and memorable moments, these two storied franchises have consistently delivered thrilling matchups over the years.
From the historic “Big Red Machine” era of the Reds to the star-studded lineups of the Dodgers, the competition has been fierce and enduring.
This rivalry showcases the essence of MLB’s rich traditions, bringing fans together in anticipation of each meeting between these formidable teams.
As they continue to face off on the diamond, the Cincinnati Reds vs. Los Angeles Dodgers rivalry remains a captivating and cherished aspect of the national pastime.
