In a stunning display of dominance, the Houston Astros defeated the Los Angeles Dodgers 18-1 on July 4, 2025, marking the Dodgers' worst home defeat in history.

This historic loss resulted in a 17-run margin, the largest the Dodgers have experienced at Dodger Stadium since their inception.

The Dodgers' rookie pitcher Ben Casparius struggled significantly, allowing six runs and nine hits in just three innings, contributing to the team's downfall.

Reliever Noah Davis compounded the issue by giving up ten runs in the sixth inning, marking the most runs the Dodgers have conceded in a single inning since 1999.

Throughout the game, the Dodgers managed only six hits, with Will Smith providing a brief highlight by hitting a solo home run.

On the other hand, Astros pitcher Lance McCullers Jr. excelled, allowing just one run and four hits over six innings while striking out four batters.

The Astros set the tone early when Isaac Paredes hit a leadoff home run on the first pitch of the game, signaling the start of their offensive onslaught.

Jose Altuve was a standout performer for the Astros, hitting two home runs and driving in five runs, but faced intense boos from Dodgers fans who chanted 'Cheater!' due to his involvement in the Astros' sign-stealing scandal.

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts expressed his frustration after the game, emphasizing the historical tension between the teams stemming from the scandal, although he noted that most players involved have since left the Astros.

Roberts remarked, 'That was one you want to flush as soon as possible,' indicating the lack of positives from this game.

Looking ahead, the Dodgers are set to play game two of the series on July 5, 2025, providing them an opportunity to bounce back from this crushing defeat.