Shohei Ohtani: An Explosive Start and the Dodgers’ Victory
In an encounter full of emotions, Shohei Ohtani had an outstanding performance that propelled the Los Angeles Dodgers to victory over the Minnesota Twins. The match, which culminated in a score of 5-2, was marked by key moments that defined the course of the game. The first extra-base hit Ohtani allowed this season was a home run by Byron Buxton, who opened the game with a home run. However, Ohtani responded immediately, hitting an impressive two-run home run in the bottom of the first inning, sending the ball 441 feet away. This was a crucial game for the Dodgers, who were looking for their third win in 13 games. Despite the four-run lead, the team came close to losing it in the last inning, and in addition, they could have suffered the loss of one of their most important relievers. In the ninth inning, Tanner Scott felt discomfort in his arm and had to leave the game. The pitcher will undergo an MRI to determine the severity of the injury.Kirby Yates entered the relief, allowing a sacrifice fly and almost wasting the lead. Carlos Correa hit a ball that looked like a home run to tie the game, but James Outman made a spectacular catch in the warning track to secure the victory. Ohtani, in his second consecutive three-inning start, threw a season-high 46 pitches and allowed seven hits that exceeded 95 mph. Despite this, he only allowed one run, striking out three batters and leaving his ERA at 1.50 in six starts. Ohtani acknowledged that he made “many mistakes at the plate, especially with two strikes” and that he should have expanded the strike zone more often. Manager Dave Roberts highlighted Ohtani’s intention to pull the team out of its slump. Ohtani, with the help of Dustin May and Will Smith, who hit two home runs, managed to inspire the team. Ohtani became the first player to hit and allow a home run in the first inning of a game since 1979. His home run was the 35th of the season, and the 260th of his career. In his next start, Ohtani aims to pitch four innings. Despite not being at his best, he managed to be effective and contributed significantly to the Dodgers’ victory.Any time a pitcher has to come out of the game is concerning.
Dave Roberts, Dodgers manager
