UPDATE: The Los Angeles Dodgers suffered a shocking 9-6 loss to the Philadelphia Phillies on September 26, 2023, despite a stellar performance from Shohei Ohtani, who notched his 50th home run during the game. The loss raises critical concerns about the Dodgers’ struggling bullpen as the postseason approaches.
In a dramatic showdown at Dodger Stadium, Ohtani dazzled fans by throwing five no-hit innings before stepping up as a batter. However, the Dodgers’ bullpen faltered, allowing a four-run lead to slip away in the sixth inning, resulting in a game-deciding homer from backup catcher Rafael Marchan.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts sought to gauge Ohtani’s condition after his impressive start, asking how he felt leading into the sixth inning. Ohtani responded positively, but Roberts opted to stick with his predetermined plan, citing Ohtani’s dual role as too critical to risk overextending him.
“He’s too important. If something does happen, then that’s on me for changing it,” Roberts stated firmly. The decision came after Ohtani had struck out five batters and allowed just one baserunner through five innings, showcasing his elite pitching against a powerful Phillies lineup.
In a shocking turn of events, rookie pitcher Justin Wrobleski inherited a 4-0 lead but quickly unraveled, allowing five runs to score and handing the Phillies a lead that they would not relinquish. The crowd of 44,063 expressed their frustration as the game slipped away, particularly after the Dodgers’ bullpen imploded once again.
Despite the loss, Ohtani’s 430-foot homer in the eighth inning made him the first player since Alex Rodriguez to hit 50 home runs in consecutive seasons, adding a bittersweet highlight to the night. The Dodgers had a chance to tie the game later, but a crucial three-run homer by Marchan in the ninth dashed any hopes of a comeback.
Ohtani expressed his desire to pitch longer but respected the management’s decision, stating, “I understand and respect the decision that the front office and manager makes.” His performance underscores his importance to the Dodgers, especially as they prepare for the postseason.
As the Dodgers’ bullpen continues to raise alarms, the team struggles to maintain their lead in the NL West, now just two games ahead. Roberts emphasized the need for a collaborative decision-making approach regarding Ohtani’s usage moving forward, indicating that conversations with team leadership and Ohtani will play a crucial role in the future.
The urgency is palpable as the Dodgers seek to address their bullpen issues before the playoffs. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how this situation unfolds, particularly as Ohtani remains a pivotal figure in the team’s postseason aspirations.