The Dodgers and Angels did not disappoint the near capacity 56,000 in attendance of last night’s Freeway Series matchup, the third of the annual four game set these two Southern California teams play. The team formerly known as the Anaheim Angels slipped past their Los Angeles rivals 5-4, and lead the series 3-0 heading into tonight’s game.

It was exactly what you want from the two premiere franchises in Southern California (sorry, San Diego). Spectacular defensive plays on both sides, a playoff atmosphere at Dodger Stadium and a competitive game to come down to the final out.

Unfortunately for the Dodgers, it was the Los Angeles Angels who made a couple more great plays, looking like a team desperate to claw back into the playoff hunt.

First, it was Mike Trout throwing out Max Muncy from center field in the second inning to preserve a 1-0 lead. Trout (who would hit his American League leading 33rd homer of the season later) threw the ball 98.6 miles per hour, easily his best assist of the season.

Then, with the Dodgers mounting a 2 out ninth inning rally, Kike Hernandez’s pinch-hit single to right field set up Cody Bellinger to score the game-tying run from second base. Not exactly, as Calhoun launched a laser to home to tag Bellinger and end the game.

Yes, the Dodgers are 67-36 and still in pole position for homefield advantage. But to lose three straight to the Angels doesn’t exactly make the Dodger Faithful feel good.

Tonight, Ross Stripling faces Jaime Barria in the final game of the Freeway Series. Will the Dodgers avoid the sweep?

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