Game Temperature Details

Official scorer Ed Munson recorded the temperature at 100 degrees, while the left field scoreboard indicated a slightly higher reading of 103 degrees. Regardless, the consensus was clear: it was exceptionally hot in Los Angeles.

Players’ Reactions

Braves reliever Brent Suter, a Harvard graduate with a degree in environmental science and public policy, remarked, “One hundred degrees in October in LA, that’s definitely not normal.” He pointed to the influence of Super El Niño as a contributing factor to the extreme heat, emphasizing the importance of hydration for both teams.

Dodgers Game 1 starting pitcher Tarik Skubal also noted the challenge posed by the heat, stating, “Hopefully everyone is drinking a lot of water and staying hydrated. It’s going to be a hot one.”

Historical Context

Manager Dave Roberts, who has experienced the hottest postseason game in Dodgers history during Game 1 of the 2017 World Series (where the temperature was 103 degrees), acknowledged the challenges posed by significant heat levels. He mentioned that both teams face the same conditions and stressed the need for hydration.

Impact on Game Day Routines

Skubal addressed potential repercussions of the heat, mentioning that players might not need as many bathroom breaks due to sweating. He humorously noted, “You’re just not going to the bathroom because you’re probably sweating it out.” Meanwhile, Shohei Ohtani of the Angels shared that he would not alter his game-day routine due to the heat but recognized its impact on pitchers.

Ohtani, who was part of the hottest game in Dodgers history as an opponent in 2018, recalled that game where the temperature reached 108 degrees.

Preparation Techniques

Prior to Saturday’s game, the Dodgers completed their batting practice earlier in the day to avoid the heat, finishing by 10:30 a.m. when the temperature was already a warm 94 degrees. Roberts had previously opted for safety over practice in extreme heat, citing that rest and air conditioning could lead to better performance.

Looking Ahead

For Game 2, set for Sunday at 5 p.m., temperatures are expected to cool to around 90 degrees, providing a more manageable environment for the players. Blake Snell, who is set to start for the Dodgers, expressed confidence in his preparation for the mild conditions compared to the intensity of midday heat.