The Los Angeles lineup has endured the struggles of the season, but while Shohei ohtani is usually a different maker, the NL MVP is fighting offensive lulls.
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As before, Otani had the opportunity to bail out the against the Chicago Cubs on Wednesday night. LA had second and third runners in six innings, two downs and Otani was on the plate.
Otani counted 2-0, but the superstar chased the fastball above. manager Dave Roberts thinks Otani is probably too offensive at the plate.
“He had a fastball that hits and he got too big on the swing, and he’s hit right there and all he needs is,” Roberts said via Bill Plunkett on the Orange County Register. “Even in this series, and even his final game in Texas when he returned, there was a bit of aggression, and the swing is a little longer than usual.
“I don’t know if he’s trying to do something and is trying so hard. There’s a couple going for a walk there, but if given to him, he might leave instead of going for a walk.”
Otani recorded three hits in his final 21 at-bats. He is cutting .261/.358/.489 with .848 OPS. His numbers are below his high standards, according to baseball’s Savant, but Otani’s expected numbers are still far higher.
Otani has made some changes this season, including the birth of a daughter, but it’s too early to panic. As Otani finds his way on the plate, magical fans are getting used to seeing him come back.
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Photo credit: Matt Marton-Immagn Image
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