Dodgers Updates: Ohtani and Yamamoto Strengthen Lineup
The Los Angeles Dodgers are gearing up for a critical Game 7, with star pitcher Shohei Ohtani taking the mound. Ohtani, a two-way player, is set to pitch on three days’ rest after throwing six innings in Game 4. Manager Dave Roberts indicated uncertainty about the duration of Ohtani’s appearance, emphasizing the importance of adapting during the game.
After sustaining a left shoulder labrum injury during the 2024 World Series, Ohtani’s return to pitching this season was gradual. He made his first appearance in mid-June and had to gradually build up his arm strength at the major-league level rather than taking time off for rehabilitation. Ohtani’s early outings included one inning, progressing to three innings by late July. He concluded the regular season with a six-inning performance.
This season, Ohtani has maintained a routine that features at least five days of rest between pitching outings. The Dodgers’ extended postseason schedule has allowed him additional recovery time. He enjoyed a 12-day break between his NLDS and NLCS starts, followed by another 10 days before his first World Series game. Despite questions about his workload, his performance remains stellar, boasting a 2.87 ERA over 47 regular-season innings. His advanced metrics, including an xFIP of 2.45 and a SIERA of 2.67, reflect his dominance on the mound.
Key Contributions from Ohtani and Yamamoto
Ohtani’s recent performance includes three consecutive scoreless starts leading into the playoffs, along with winning efforts in the NLDS and NLCS. He faced some challenges in Game 3 against Toronto, allowing four earned runs while securing six strikeouts over six innings.
In discussions about pitching depth for Game 7, attention turns to Yoshinobu Yamamoto. A video surfaced of Yamamoto, who led the team to victory in Game 6, throwing before Game 7. Though previously not expected to play, Roberts acknowledged Yamamoto’s eagerness to contribute.
Yamamoto has been a force in the postseason, posting a remarkable 1.56 ERA over 34 2/3 innings. His performances could make him a candidate for World Series MVP, were it not for Ohtani’s significant impact. While Yamamoto seems eager, he may not be the first choice if relief is needed, given the pitching depth available to Roberts.
Lineup Adjustments for Game 7
As the Dodgers finalize their lineup for Game 7, Roberts is making key adjustments. Max Muncy and Teoscar Hernandez swapped batting positions, moving Muncy to the fifth spot and placing Mookie Betts back in cleanup. Betts broke a hitting slump in Game 6, recording his first RBI since Game 3 of the NLCS with a crucial hit that added runs during a tight matchup.
- Shohei Ohtani’s ERA: 2.87
- Yoshinobu Yamamoto’s postseason ERA: 1.56
- Betts’ performance: 3-for-24 prior to Game 6
- Muncy batting against Scherzer: strategic adjustment
With these lineup changes, the Dodgers aim to build on their momentum and secure a victory in what promises to be an intense Game 7 showdown.
