ANAHEIM, Calif. – In a thrilling return to Angel Stadium, Shohei Ohtani showcased his incredible talent on the mound and at the plate, striking out Mike Trout twice during a standout performance for the Los Angeles Dodgers on Wednesday night. This marks Ohtani’s first pitching appearance in Anaheim since departing from the Los Angeles Angels nearly two years ago.
Ohtani delivered 4 1/3 innings of five-hit, four-run ball, recording seven strikeouts, including two against his former teammate Trout. The highlight came in the fourth inning, where Ohtani unleashed a blazing 101 mph fastball to strike out Trout, reigniting memories of their past matchups.
His performance began with an impressive triple as the Dodgers’ leadoff hitter, scoring shortly after and exciting the crowd. Ohtani’s presence on the mound was marked by the same electrifying energy that endeared him to Angels fans during his six seasons with the team.
Despite his strong start, Ohtani faced challenges in the fifth inning, surrendering three consecutive one-out hits before exiting the game after Zach Neto‘s two-run double cut the Dodgers’ lead to 5-4. The Angels had loaded the bases, but relief pitcher Anthony Banda managed to escape the jam, keeping the game in contention.
“Ohtani is still beloved in Anaheim,” a fan commented. “We remember the magic he brought here.”
Ohtani’s return to the mound was his longest outing since resuming pitching two months ago, following a torn ligament surgery that sidelined him for the entire 2024 MLB season after signing a staggering $700 million contract with the Dodgers. The three-time MVP received warm cheers from the crowd, a testament to the affection fans still hold for him despite his departure.
The showdown drew significant attention as it marked the first time Ohtani and Trout faced each other since their memorable encounter during the 2023 World Baseball Classic, where Ohtani struck out Trout to clinch the championship for Japan. Their friendly nods and smirks before the game set the stage for an exciting rivalry.
Ohtani’s dual-threat capabilities were on full display, as he contributed offensively with a triple and a walk, though he was later struck out by Angels reliever Andrew Chafin in the sixth inning. The crowd’s energy fluctuated with each of his at-bats, highlighting the emotional connection fans have with both players.
The game also featured notable moments, including Will Smith‘s 15th homer, giving Ohtani an early 3-0 lead. However, Ohtani’s pitching was tested as he allowed a home run to Taylor Ward during a two-run second inning, showcasing the competitive nature of the matchup.
As the Dodgers and Angels continue their Freeway Series rivalry, fans are left eagerly anticipating what Ohtani will bring to the mound next. With his remarkable talent and resilience, Shohei Ohtani remains a figure of fascination and admiration in the world of baseball. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.