Shohei Ohtani’s performance has been a focal point as the Los Angeles Dodgers continue their playoff run. During Game 2 of the National League Championship Series, Ohtani struck out three times, highlighting a hitting slump that has plagued him throughout the postseason. Although he managed a crucial seventh-inning RBI single that ended a streak of 15 consecutive hitless at-bats, it is evident that he has struggled since the wild-card round, batting merely 2-for-25 with an alarming 12 strikeouts.
Before practice at Dodger Stadium, where he participated in batting drills for the first time since joining the team, Ohtani spoke to media about his current challenges. He dismissed claims that his dual role as a pitcher has hindered his batting performance, stating, “I don’t necessarily think that the pitching has affected my hitting performance. It’s a constant work in progress.”
In the playoffs, Ohtani has faced a lineup of left-handed pitchers, significantly influencing his performance. Out of his 40 plate appearances, 22 have been against lefties, and he has only reached base three times in those encounters. The Brewers’ strategy closely mirrors that of the Phillies, who aggressively pitched left-handed options against him. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts noted Ohtani’s positive approach at the plate despite his low batting average over the series, pointing out solid strike-zone control and aggressiveness when faced with favorable pitches.
Ohtani, who showcased his power by hitting two home runs against the Cincinnati Reds in the wild-card series, appears to be adjusting but acknowledges the ongoing battle with mechanics. Historically, he has been incredibly impactful as both a pitcher and hitter, exemplifying this in his 2024 season with the Dodgers, where he led offensive metrics and earned his fourth MVP award in five years. As the series progresses, the hope remains that Ohtani will find his rhythm at the plate, revitalizing the Dodgers’ championship aspirations.