The Triple Crown is within reach for Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani, but one decision could hinder his pursuit.
Recently, manager Dave Roberts revealed that Ohtani would remain atop the Dodgers lineup despite the impending return of Mookie Betts from the injured list. While it might be in the team’s best interest, it could significantly alter the standout designated hitter’s path to history.
Entering Friday’s action, Ohtani led the National League in batting average .302) and home runs (34) while ranking second in RBI (81), only seven behind Marcel Ozuna of the Atlanta Braves. Since moving up from the No. 2 spot in the lineup in place of Betts, his production has stayed relatively the same, but several differences stick out.
Unsurprisingly, batting first instead of second has changed Ohtani’s approach slightly at the plate.
For one, he’s earning more free bases in the leadoff spot, drawing 31 walks over 200 plate appearances, as opposed to 32 over 312 appearances in the two-hole. Secondly, Ohtani’s batting average has dipped from .314 to .283 batting first, while his hit totals have dropped nearly in half, from 86 to 47, albeit over far fewer chances.
It might be fair to say that Ohtani’s home run and RBI output have improved since the move. On the surface, that’s true, as he’s recorded 15 homers and 35 RBI in the leadoff spot (43 games) compared to 19 long balls and 46 RBI batting second (69 games).
However, batting first may be beginning to take a toll on his numbers — more than half of Ohtani’s home runs (8) and RBI (18) came in his first 50 at-bats (13 games) in the role. Meanwhile, through the last 29 games, he’s registered fewer homers (7) and RBI (17) in more than double the at-bats (112).
Joining the Triple Crown club would be another astounding achievement for Ohtani to put on his resume. Yet, it seems he’d instead trade individual accomplishments for the betterment of the team, much like Betts, who will switch back to right field from shortstop when he returns to the Dodgers lineup on Monday.
While the sacrifices may cost the MLB record books, they could pay off in the form of a World Series title if the changes result in more winning. For that to happen, the Dodgers must first focus on securing a playoff spot.
L.A. still holds the National League West division lead (66-49). However, having lost three of their last four series (4-7), the advantage has shrunk to only 2.5 games over the San Diego Padres (64-52), who’ve won five straight and occupy the top NL wild-card spot.
