Dodgers' Slump Deepens as Ohtani's Power Isn't Enough

Shohei Ohtani's recent surge of home runs hasn't been enough to lift the Los Angeles Dodgers out of a slump that threatens their usual dominance in the NL West. Ohtani hit his 42nd home run of the season in the eighth inning of Monday night's game against the Los Angeles Angels, marking his third consecutive game with a homer.

The Dodgers were trailing 7-0 when Ohtani connected, driving the ball into the right field bleachers. This tied Philadelphia's Kyle Schwarber for the NL lead in home runs. Ohtani's hit also sparked a rally, with Mookie Betts and Will Smith following with singles before Max Muncy's home run brought them home, narrowing the Dodgers' deficit. However, the Angels, who are under .500, held on to win their fifth straight game against their crosstown rivals.

The loss reduced the Dodgers' lead over San Diego in the NL West to just one game, the smallest margin since June 14. Ohtani is on a 10-game hitting streak, his longest of the season, and is considered the front-runner for his fourth MVP award. Despite his impressive performance, the Dodgers have struggled since the All-Star break.

The team's inconsistent performance, with a lack of production across the lineup and unreliable relief pitching, has made them look less like the dominant team that has achieved significant success in recent years. The Dodgers' starting pitcher, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, struggled, allowing six runs on six hits and five walks. This followed two solid performances against the AL-leading Blue Jays, highlighting the team's inconsistent play.

The Dodgers are aware of the urgency to improve, especially with their rivals, the San Diego Padres, closing in on them in the standings. The Padres have made significant moves at the trade deadline, while the Dodgers made only minor additions. The upcoming series between the Dodgers and Padres in the next two weekends is expected to intensify the rivalry. Ohtani, who previously played for the Angels, is scheduled to pitch at Angel Stadium on Wednesday night. His home run was his 100th at the stadium.