As the Los Angeles Dodgers inch toward capturing the prestigious World Series title, the spotlight also falls on Shohei Ohtani, a player whose dual prowess as a hitter and pitcher has captivated the baseball world. Despite his team's commanding 3-0 lead in the series, Ohtani's individual journey has been marked by both remarkable achievements and challenges.
Ohtani's Remarkable Season
Shohei Ohtani has cemented his status as a formidable force in Major League Baseball's 2023 season. With a stellar batting average of .310 and an on-base plus slugging percentage of .646, Ohtani has demonstrated exceptional consistency and power at the plate. He smashed 54 home runs while driving in 130 RBIs, feats that contributed significantly to his team's success. Additionally, Ohtani stole 59 bases, setting a historic milestone as the first MLB player to exceed 50 home runs and 50 stolen bases in a single season.
His contributions extend beyond traditional statistics. Ohtani amassed an impressive 9.2 Wins Above Replacement, underlining his invaluable role in both offensive and defensive play. His name is now firmly in the mix for the National League Most Valuable Player Award, a testament to his comprehensive impact on the field.
Shoulder Injury and Performance in the World Series
Despite his exceptional season, Ohtani has been battling a partially dislocated left shoulder, an injury he sustained before Game 3 of the World Series. An MRI conducted after Game 2 indicated a subluxation, though fortunately, imaging did not reveal any structural damage. The injury, however, has posed a challenge for Ohtani, who plays as both a hitter and a right-handed pitcher; the issue affects his non-pitching shoulder.
In Game 3, Ohtani bravely took to the field, drawing a four-pitch walk and enduring a hit by pitch, albeit without recording a hit in three at-bats. His manager, Dave Roberts, weighed in, expressing confidence in Ohtani's resilience: "I don't see him being compromised. Once we make the decision that he can play, I would assume that there isn't a possibility [that he makes it worse]."
The decision to allow Ohtani to continue playing reflects cautious optimism, even as further assessments await the off-season. Ohtani himself noted, "I haven't had further conversations about the future plan. I think it's something that's going to happen after the season is over, do additional testing. But in terms of how I feel now, I don't think so."
Looking Ahead
With the Dodgers on the brink of clinching the World Series title, the focus remains both on the team's overall performance and on Ohtani's tenacity amid adversity. The Dodgers' ability to take a 3-0 lead exemplifies their collective strengths, while Ohtani's presence continues to inspire his teammates and fans alike.
While the immediate concern revolves around his ability to contribute during this critical series, the larger picture considers Ohtani’s pitching future. Indications are that Ohtani is not expected to pitch again until the 2025 MLB season, giving him ample time for recovery and ensuring his continued contribution to both pitching and hitting.
Shohei Ohtani's journey this season underscores the resilience and dedication that define his career. As the Dodgers chase their championship dreams, Ohtani stands as a symbol of perseverance and excellence, making history with every swing and every move on the field.
