Shohei Ohtani’s Dominant Performance Sparks Intentional Walks in World Series
The Toronto Blue Jays learned a valuable lesson in Game 3 of the World Series: when Shohei Ohtani is on fire, it’s best to let someone else try to beat you. The Blue Jays’ decision not to intentionally walk Ohtani in the seventh inning proved costly, as he hit a game-tying home run. After that, the Blue Jays took a different approach, intentionally walking Ohtani four times in his next four plate appearances.
Ohtani’s impressive performance was reminiscent of Babe Ruth, who played in 41 World Series games and was intentionally walked only twice. In contrast, Ohtani was intentionally walked four times in a single game, a testament to his dominance at the plate. The situation called for it, with the Blue Jays leading 5-4 and Ohtani already having hit two doubles and a home run.
Blue Jays’ Pitching Strategy Backfires
The Blue Jays’ pitching strategy was to pitch around Ohtani, but not intentionally walk him. However, this approach backfired when Seranthony Domínguez missed his pitch, and Ohtani hit a home run to tie the game. After that, the Blue Jays took no chances, intentionally walking Ohtani in each of his next four plate appearances.
Ohtani’s performance was historic, as he reached base nine times and set a postseason record. He also became the first player in postseason history with multiple home runs, doubles, and walks in the same game. The Blue Jays’ decision to walk Ohtani was likely influenced by the fact that he was batting in front of Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman, both of whom are former MVPs and eight-time All-Stars.
Dodgers’ Manager Dave Roberts Weighs In
Dodgers’ manager Dave Roberts praised the Blue Jays’ decision to intentionally walk Ohtani, saying it was a sign of respect for the player’s abilities. Roberts also noted that the Blue Jays’ pitching strategy was sound, given the warm weather conditions at Dodger Stadium. With a heat advisory issued for Southern California, the Blue Jays will likely continue to walk Ohtani to prevent him from hitting another home run.
Freeman, who hit the walk-off home run, said that the Blue Jays’ decision to walk Ohtani was the right move, given his hot streak. The Angels adopted a similar strategy in the 2002 World Series, walking Barry Bonds 13 times in the seven-game series. While Ohtani may not receive the same treatment, it’s clear that he is a force to be reckoned with at the plate.
Shohei Ohtani looks at home plate umpire Mark Wegner as he is intentionally walked in the 13th inning of Game 3 of the World Series against the Blue Jays on Monday.
(Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times)
The Blue Jays’ loss in Game 3 was a tough pill to swallow, but they will look to bounce back in Game 4. With Ohtani’s dominant performance still fresh in their minds, they will likely continue to intentionally walk him to prevent him from beating them again. As the series continues, it will be interesting to see how the Blue Jays’ strategy plays out and whether Ohtani can continue to dominate at the plate.
Highlights from the Dodgers’ 6-5 win in 18 innings over the Toronto Blue Jays in Game 3 of the World Series at Dodger Stadium.
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