The Los Angeles Dodgers lineup has endured early season struggles, and while Shohei Ohtani is usually the difference-maker, the NL MVP is also battling an offensive lull.
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Like so many times before, Ohtani had the chance to bail out the Dodgers Wednesday night against the Chicago Cubs. L.A. had runners at second and third in the sixth inning with two down and Ohtani at the plate.
Though Ohtani worked a 2-0 count, the Dodgers superstar chased a fastball that was up and inside. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts believes Ohtani is perhaps being too aggressive at the plate, which has factored into his struggles throughout the first month of the season.
“He had a fastball to hit and just got too big with the swing. Where all you need is a base hit right there,” Roberts said, via The Orange County Register’s Bill Plunkett. “I think a little bit this series, and even that last game in Texas when he came back, there was a little over-aggressiveness. The swing is a little bit longer than it typically is.
“I don’t know if he’s trying to do something, trying too hard. There’s a couple walks in there. But there’s other times where he’s getting himself out instead of taking a walk if given to him.”
Ohtani has recorded three hits in his last 21 at-bats. He’s slashing .261/.358/.489 with a .848 OPS. While his numbers have been below his high standards, Ohtani’s expected numbers are still much higher, according to Baseball Savant.
There have been several changes for Ohtani this season — including the birth of his daughter — and it’s way too early to panic. Once Ohtani finds his stride at the plate, the magic Dodgers fans have become so accustomed to seeing should return.
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Photo Credit: Matt Marton-Imagn Images
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