UPDATE: In a thrilling showdown, Shohei Ohtani rebounded from adversity by hitting a massive 441-foot home run after allowing one to Byron Buxton, leading the Los Angeles Dodgers to a 5-2 victory over the Minnesota Twins on July 17, 2023. This electrifying performance comes as the Dodgers strive to shake off a rough stretch, winning only their third game in 13 attempts.
The excitement unfolded in the bottom of the first inning. After Buxton’s leadoff home run, Ohtani stepped up and quickly silenced the crowd, launching a two-run homer that set the tone for the game. However, the victory was overshadowed by concern over Dodgers reliever Tanner Scott, who exited in the ninth inning with a painful “sting” in his left forearm. Manager Dave Roberts indicated that Scott is “most likely” heading to the injured list, pending an MRI scheduled for tomorrow.
“Any time a pitcher’s gotta come out of the game, it’s concerning,”
said Roberts. The 30-year-old Scott had struggled this season, underperforming after signing a $72 million contract.
As the game progressed, the Dodgers faced mounting pressure. After Scott’s exit, Kirby Yates was brought in to relieve him but immediately loaded the bases, allowing a sacrifice fly that nearly turned the game into a nail-biter. Carlos Correa came close to tying the game with a deep fly ball, but Dodgers outfielder James Outman made a spectacular catch just inches from the wall, preserving the lead.
Earlier in the game, Ohtani, who allowed only one run despite lacking his usual sharpness, pitched three innings and struck out three batters. His season ERA now stands at 1.50 after six starts. Ohtani stated,
“I made a lot of mistakes over the plate… I should have expanded the strike zone more often.”
This game marked Ohtani’s return after a nine-day break due to the All-Star festivities. Despite throwing a season-high 46 pitches and allowing seven hard-hit balls, he managed to contain the Twins offense effectively.
With the victory, Ohtani not only showcased his resilience but also added to his impressive career stats. His 35th home run of the season puts him among an elite group of players, making him the ninth player with multiple 35-homer seasons across both leagues. This accomplishment further solidifies his status as a unique talent in the sport, being one of just 12 players to hit over 260 home runs in their first eight seasons, all while serving as a pitcher.
As the Dodgers look ahead, they aim to build momentum from this win. Ohtani expressed his desire to improve, stating,
“I want to get to that four-inning mark.”
Fans will eagerly await his next start as the team seeks to rise from their recent struggles.
Stay tuned for further updates on Tanner Scott’s condition and the Dodgers’ upcoming games, as the stakes continue to rise in this gripping MLB season.
