In a game that showcased the Los Angeles Dodgers‘ pitching prowess, Shohei Ohtani delivered a performance that not only secured his first win as a starter for the team but also earned him high praise from his fellow pitcher, Blake Snell.
Ohtani‘s five-inning outing against the Cincinnati Reds was marked by nine strikeouts and a season-low ERA, highlighting his return to form after a challenging period.
Ohtani‘s outing was a masterclass in pitching. He allowed just one run on two hits and two walks, striking out nine batters over five innings.
This performance was a significant improvement from his previous two starts, where he had given up nine runs in 8.1 innings.
His ability to navigate through traffic, including stranding runners in scoring position, demonstrated his resilience and control on the mound.
The Dodgers‘ offense provided ample support, with a four-run fourth inning that gave Ohtani a comfortable lead.
Enrique Hernandez and rookie Dalton Rushing contributed with two-run singles, while Michael Conforto added a solo home run, marking his first against a left-handed pitcher this season.
Ohtani’s evolving arsenal
Ohtani‘s recent outings demonstrate why the Dodgers remain a formidable postseason contender.
His ability to excel both on the mound and at the plate presents matchup dilemmas for opposing teams.
With 45 home runs and elite strikeout capabilities, even a partially recovered Ohtani offers the Dodgers leadership, depth, and versatility.
One of the most notable changes in 2025 is Ohtani‘s pitching mechanics. His four-seam fastball now averages a career-high 98.2 mph, creating an immediate challenge for hitters.
Adjustments in his full-windup mechanics, reminiscent of his early days in Japan, have increased velocity and spin rates.
Blake Snell’s acknowledgment
Blake Snell, who shares the Dodgers‘ starting rotation with Ohtani, took to social media to commend his teammate’s performance.
On Instagram, Snell posted a story with the caption: “You nasty @shoheiohtani,” expressing his admiration for Ohtani‘s pitching clinic. Snell‘s acknowledgment underscores the camaraderie and mutual respect within the Dodgers‘ pitching staff.
The Dodgers‘ pitching staff collectively set a new franchise record by recording 19 strikeouts in a nine-inning game.
Ohtani‘s nine strikeouts were complemented by contributions from relievers Jack Dreyer, Justin Wrobleski, Edgardo Henriquez, and Blake Treinen, who combined for the remaining 10 strikeouts.
This collective effort not only secured the win but also highlighted the depth and strength of the Dodgers‘ pitching lineup.
With this victory, the Dodgers completed a three-game sweep of the Reds, extending their home winning streak to six games.
The team’s pitching staff continues to perform at a high level, with Ohtani‘s resurgence adding to the rotation’s strength.
As the season progresses, the Dodgers will look to maintain their momentum and capitalize on their pitching depth to secure a strong position in the postseason race.
Read the full article here
