In a tight 6-5 win over the D-backs, the Dodgers faced Shohei Ohtani's menace when, with a runner on third in the seventh inning, Arizona intentionally walked him to avoid further damage. Despite a slow offensive start this season, Ohtani's past performance makes him a target for such strategies. He had already contributed significantly with a double and two-run triple earlier in the game, and the decision to walk him allowed Mookie Betts to drive in an important run. The D-backs' tactics show the respect they have for Ohtani's capabilities, highlighting the depth of the Dodgers' lineup behind him. Ultimately, his contributions proved vital in edging out the D-backs, as they rallied late but couldn't overcome the deficit.

By the Numbers
  • Shohei Ohtani went 2-for-3 with a double and two triples in the game.
  • Since May 12, Ohtani is hitting .420 with 13 extra-base hits over 69 at-bats.
Yes, But

While the D-backs opted to intentionally walk Ohtani, it raises the question of whether this strategy can be effective long-term. Although he was neutralized in one instance, his teammates still capitalized and secured runs, demonstrating the potential risks of pitching around a key player.

State of Play
  • The Dodgers rebounded from a lackluster performance the previous night, showing improved offensive production.
  • Ohtani's recent form indicates he is regaining his power-hitting prowess, with significant statistics backing his performance upswing.
What's Next

The Dodgers will look to build on this momentum as Ohtani continues to find his rhythm. If he maintains this level of performance, teams may have to reconsider how to approach him strategically.

Bottom Line

Despite attempts to contain him, Ohtani's influence remains undeniable; his ability to impact the game even while walked showcases the need for teams to respect the entire Dodgers lineup. The challenge for opponents is balancing the risk of facing him with the strength present in the batting order behind him.