The Los Angeles Dodgers lineup has endured early season struggles, and whereas Shohei Ohtani is often the difference-maker, the NL MVP can be battling an offensive lull.
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Like so many instances earlier than, Ohtani had the prospect to bail out the Dodgers Wednesday evening towards the Chicago Cubs. L.A. had runners at second and third within the sixth inning with two down and Ohtani on the plate.
Although Ohtani labored a 2-0 rely, the Dodgers famous person chased a fastball that was up and inside. Dodgers supervisor Dave Roberts believes Ohtani is maybe being too aggressive on the plate, which has factored into his struggles all through the primary month of the season.
“He had a fastball to hit and simply acquired too huge with the swing. The place all you want is a base hit proper there,” Roberts stated, by way of The Orange County Register’s Invoice Plunkett. “I believe somewhat bit this sequence, and even that final sport in Texas when he got here again, there was somewhat over-aggressiveness. The swing is somewhat bit longer than it usually is.
“I don’t know if he’s attempting to do one thing, attempting too laborious. There’s a pair walks in there. However there’s different instances the place he’s getting himself out as an alternative of taking a stroll if given to him.”
Ohtani has recorded three hits in his final 21 at-bats. He’s slashing .261/.358/.489 with a .848 OPS. Whereas his numbers have been under his excessive requirements, Ohtani’s anticipated numbers are nonetheless a lot increased, in accordance with Baseball Savant.
There have been a number of modifications for Ohtani this season — together with the start of his daughter — and it’s means too early to panic. As soon as Ohtani finds his stride on the plate, the magic Dodgers followers have turn out to be so accustomed to seeing ought to return.
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Picture Credit score: Matt Marton-Imagn Pictures
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