Commentary: Why Shohei Ohtani’s Game 4 Failure Will Drive Him to Pitch Again in This World Series

The Resilience of Shohei Ohtani: A Pathway to Another Championship?

The World Series Game 4 loss for the Los Angeles Dodgers saw their star player, Shohei Ohtani, deliver a performance that left many questioning his ability. After pitching an 18-inning victory against the Toronto Blue Jays the previous night, Ohtani was tasked with leading the team in another high-stakes game.

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts revealed that after Game 4, Ohtani’s pitching coach, Mark Prior, had approached him to gauge his stamina. “He said he had three more innings,” Roberts stated. However, Ohtani couldn’t make it out of the seventh inning, giving up a hit and a double that led to two runs, ultimately contributing to the Dodgers’ 6-2 defeat.

Physical Exhaustion and Mental Fortitude

Ohtani’s performance was not just about his physical abilities but also his mental fortitude. Despite being visibly exhausted—sweating profusely and looking dehydrated—he refused to accept the setback as a failure. “Of course, I’d like to prepare to be available for every game in case I’m needed,” Ohtani said in Japanese. His drive to contribute further highlights his importance to the team.

Despite his physical demands, Ohtani’s presence on the field has been invaluable.

He reached base nine times and homered twice during Game 3, displaying remarkable performance even after an 18-inning game. This dual role as a starting pitcher and leadoff hitter showcases the flexibility required in modern baseball.

A New Role for Ohtani?

The loss of Ohtani’s services on the mound raises questions about his future roles within the lineup. As a closer, his skills would be best utilized, but he has shown that he is more than capable as a reliever in high-pressure situations. Manager Roberts acknowledged this potential: “They might as well use him as a closer, and they might as well use him in a World Series clincher, either in Game 6 or 7.” This flexibility could be the key to the Dodgers’ success.

Ohtani’s willingness to adapt his role and continue contributing despite physical exhaustion is a testament to his dedication. His performance in both starting roles has highlighted his value as a two-way player, making him an indispensable asset for the Dodgers.

A Tied Series with High Stakes

The series now stands tied at two games each, setting up a potential Game 7 showdown. For Ohtani and the Dodgers, this is more than just a game; it’s an opportunity to demonstrate their resilience and adaptability in high-pressure situations.

Dylan Hernández, the columnist who penned the original piece, noted that Ohtani’s refusal to accept failure could be the driving force behind another championship. “This is who Ohtani is,” he wrote. “This is what he does.” The series’ future hangs in the balance, and Ohtani’s performance will undoubtedly be a critical factor.

As the World Series progresses, the focus remains on how teams adapt to adversity. For the Dodgers, the ability of their star player to pitch again if needed could mean the difference between victory and defeat in this closely contested series.