Dave Roberts Discusses Shohei Ohtani’s Dominance as Dodgers‘ Leadoff Hitter

Shohei Ohtani was thrust into the Dodgers’ leadoff spot when Mookie Betts fractured his hand. Ohtani, who had prior leadoff expertise from his time with the Angels, has made an immediate affect atop L.A.’s lineup.

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Ohtani led off for the Dodgers in every of their 4 video games this week in opposition to the Colorado Rockies. Ohtani went 8-for-18 (.444) with two residence runs, three doubles, and 7 runs batted in. He additionally scored six runs.

The Dodgers took three of 4 from Colorado, and have discovered a supply of immediate offense in Ohtani. Dodgers supervisor Dave Roberts spoke about Ohtani’s transfer to the leadoff spot, and what he’s seen from him thus far.

“It was by default,” Roberts stated of his transfer to leadoff. “We had nobody else. So, he’s an ideal default. He’s accomplished it earlier than. He’s accomplished it earlier than. And truthfully, he’s swinging the bat nicely there, and he was beginning to swing the batter higher earlier than that. So, he’s simply doing what he must do so far as controlling the zone.”

Roberts initially stated he wasn’t certain if Ohtani would solely lead off in opposition to right-handed pitching, however to date, he’s been the leadoff hitter in opposition to pitchers from each side. And contemplating his success, Ohtani will probably keep there for the foreseeable future.

The Dodgers head again to Los Angeles to welcome Ohtani’s former workforce, the Angels, into Dodger Stadium for a three-game set. Anticipate to see Ohtani within the leadoff spot for all three video games.

Obligatory Credit score: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports activities