"Anxious" at the Plate, But Dodgers Secure Series Win

Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts anticipated a boost in Shohei Ohtani's performance, suggesting "dad strength" could enhance the two-way star's already impressive hitting power. However, Ohtani's return to the lineup didn't immediately reflect this expectation.

Ohtani, who had been on the paternity list following the birth of his first child, went 0 for 3 with a walk in the Dodgers' 1-0 victory over the Texas Rangers. Roberts observed that Ohtani seemed "a little anxious" at the plate.

The Dodgers' win was secured with a run in the eighth inning, driven by a walk from Ohtani. This walk advanced a pinch-hitter to second base, who then advanced to third and scored on a sacrifice fly. The Dodgers won the series two games to one, with both wins being shutouts.

Ohtani, who arrived in Texas late the previous night, did not speak to reporters. Roberts described Ohtani's approach as "overly aggressive," attributing it to the two days off. Roberts didn't believe the late arrival affected Ohtani's performance.

Prior to the game, Roberts had jokingly predicted increased exit velocities from Ohtani, citing the phenomenon of "dad strength." He noted that he's seen players benefit from fatherhood, suggesting that the experience translates to the baseball field.

Ohtani, who has played in all of Los Angeles' previous games, currently has a .277 batting average with six home runs and 21 runs scored. On Saturday, Ohtani expressed his gratitude to his wife and excitement about becoming a father in an Instagram post.