Shohei Ohtani dominates San Francisco Giants as LA Dodgers secure win
Shohei Ohtani delivered seven scoreless innings to help the Los Angeles Dodgers secure a 4-0 victory over the San Francisco Giants on Wednesday night.
The Japanese superstar struck out eight batters and allowed just four hits to snap his team’s four-game losing streak.
Despite an ongoing slump at the plate, the two-way phenomenon was rested from the offensive lineup but continued his spectacular form on the mound.
Historic start to the season
His earned run average (ERA) now sits at a remarkable 0.82, making it the sixth-lowest through a pitcher’s first seven starts since 1994.
The veteran ace easily leads the major leagues in ERA, sitting well ahead of New York Yankees pitcher Cam Schlittler.
He also ranks third overall in WHIP, highlighting a dominant return to a full-time pitching role within a strict six-man rotation.
“He wants to be the best pitcher in baseball,” Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said. “And right now, he’s doing it.”
Managing the offensive workload
While his pitching has drawn early Cy Young Award consideration, the former Los Angeles Angel has struggled uncharacteristically with the bat.
He has managed only seven home runs this season, accumulating just three singles and a double in 36 at-bats earlier this month.
As a result, the Dodgers are actively managing his workload as he approaches his 32nd birthday.
He sat out Wednesday’s hitting lineup and will also rest during Thursday’s series finale to recover.
“First and foremost, the fact that I’m not injured, that’s a good thing,” Ohtani said through an interpreter.
“I do want to contribute more offensively. I haven’t done so this year, so I’m looking forward to doing that.”
Seeking momentum at the plate
A promising opposite-field home run on Tuesday ended a 13-game drought, giving the designated hitter renewed confidence.
“My last at-bat as a hitter yesterday was really good, so I want to continue that momentum whenever I get to hit again,” he added.
Despite the gruelling nature of his dual responsibilities, the right-handed pitcher insists he feels at his absolute physical peak.