2002 NLDS Game 5
The Giants erased a 1-0 early deficit and a 2-1 deficit at home to win the series against the Braves.
The 2002 NLDS Game 5 between the San Francisco Giants and the Atlanta Braves stands as one of the most dramatic episodes in franchise history, often cited as a defining moment of the modern era. Played at Pacific Bell Park (now Oracle Park) on October 9, 2002, this National League Division Series clincher saw the Giants overcome a 1-0 early deficit and later a 2-1 deficit to win the series in a 3-1 victory.
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- David Bell (Go-ahead single)
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- Giants trailed 1-0 early and 2-1 but rallied to win 3-1 in regulation
Lore & Background
The turning point came when the Giants tied the game in the bottom of the sixth on a Kenny Lofton single, then took the lead in the eighth on a David Bell single. The victory was secured by a 1-2-3 ninth inning, sending the Giants to the NLCS and setting the stage for one of the most memorable World Series runs in franchise history.
In Their Own Story
The fog rolled off the bay, clinging to the outfield grass as the seventh inning began. Inside the dugout, the mood was somber; seven runs down felt like a mountain too high to climb. Then, the sound of the bat cracking echoed through the night air—a deep drive that sailed over the left-field wall. The stadium erupted from silence to a deafening roar in seconds. Bonds jogged around the bases, the momentum shifting palpably with every step, as the Giants began their improbable march toward extra innings.
Reader's Guide
The occasion was a do-or-die scenario for the San Francisco Giants against their arch-rivals, the Los Angeles Dodgers. With the series tied at two games apiece, a loss in Game 5 would have eliminated the Giants from the playoffs entirely. In the early innings, the Dodgers dominated, building a commanding seven-run lead by the fifth inning. The Giants' offense was silent, and hope seemed to fade with each out recorded against them. However, Barry Bonds hit a two-run home run in the sixth inning that began the collapse of the Dodgers' lead. Over the next several innings, the Giants chipped away at the score, tying the game and eventually forcing extra innings. The match is remembered for its sheer dramatic arc: from certain elimination to a walk-off victory by Edgar Renteria. It showcased the team's refusal to quit and kept their World Series aspirations alive.
Did You Know?
- Barry Bonds had previously hit playoff home runs with the Pirates in 1990, 1991, and 1992, so this was not his first.
- David Bell's go-ahead single in the eighth inning won the series for the Giants, not Edgar Renteria.
- The Giants trailed 1-0 early and 2-1 but won 3-1 in regulation, not extra innings, and did not overcome a 5-run deficit.
- The victory clinched the NLDS for the Giants, advancing them to the NLCS.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which teams played in the 2002 NLDS Game 5?
The San Francisco Giants played against their cross-bay rivals, the Los Angeles Dodgers. This matchup served as a critical clincher in the National League Division Series.
What key moment defined the Giants' comeback in this game?
Barry Bonds delivered a crucial home run that helped spark the team's momentum during the contest. The squad managed to erase a seven-run deficit to stay alive in the playoffs.
How did the series status change after this match?
The win tied the series at two games each, necessitating a decisive Game 6 between the opponents. This result kept San Francisco's season hopes intact against Los Angeles.
Why is 2002 NLDS Game 5 considered iconic by fans?
It is cited as one of the most dramatic episodes in franchise history and defines the modern era for supporters. Fans remember it for the sheer resilience shown to overcome such a large hole at home.
Where and when was this dramatic contest held?
The game took place on October 9, 2002, at Pacific Bell Park in San Francisco. This venue is currently known as Oracle Park but was named differently during that season.