An old but accurate Chinese proverb tells us: “A thousand-mile journey begins with one step.”

On Thursday night, the Dodgers took their first postseason step toward the ultimate 2019 goal – World Champions. A convincing 6 – 0 victory over the Washington Nationals behind the dominant combined two-hit, 13-strikeout pitching of Walker Buehler, Adam Kolarek, Kenta Maeda, and Joe Kelly.

The Dodgers offense was opportunistic early, as Max Muncy found different ways to drive in four runs, then exploded late with home runs by 21-year-old rookie Gavin Lux (pinch-hit), and Joc Pederson. Lux’s home run was a 108 mph line drive over the right-centerfield fence, while Joc’s was a massive 115 mph, 437 feet blast that hit the right-field ‘fair’ pole.

Just one victory of the eleven needed over the next month to become World Champions and the postseason path is littered with the vagaries associated with any playoff series. Yes, anything can happen along the journey, but the victory last night was reminiscent of the way the Dodgers dominated other teams during the first half of the 2019 season, before manager Dave Roberts – and the team – took their collective foot off the throttle while coasting to their seventh consecutive National League West title.

Ten wins away from the ultimate goal. It will not be easy. But what a great first step on that long journey.

Go Dodgers!

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