Shohei Ohtani Nears 50-50 Milestone as Dodgers Down Cubs
Shohei Ohtani quest for a historic 50-50 season gained momentum with a career-high 47th home run.
Tommy Edman’s power surge continued with two homers, his second consecutive game with multiple home runs. This offensive explosion led the Dodgers to a thrilling 10-8 win over the Chicago Cubs at Chavez Ravine.
Dodgers Edge Cubs 10-8
In a game marked by high-octane offense, the Dodgers’ victory was a testament to their depth and resilience.
In the seventh inning, the score was deadlocked at 7-7. Will Smith broke the stalemate with a one-out double to right-center, advancing to third on Max Muncy’s groundout. Miguel Rojas drew a walk, setting the stage for Gavin Lux’s heroics.
The Dodgers’ seventh-inning rally showcased their ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities, with Lux’s timely hit proving decisive. This followed his first-inning homer from the right side, showcasing his impressive versatility.
Dodgers’ Lead Grows, Magic Number 12
Evan Phillips bounced back from Tuesday’s blown save with a dominant eighth inning, retiring the side in order. Michael Kopech navigated a treacherous ninth inning, securing the win and extending the Dodgers’ National League West lead to five games.
Seiya Suzuki’s attempted steal of third was thwarted, and Michael Busch’s strikeout ended the game.
His recent performances, including a 10-1 loss to the Angels on Sept. 4, have raised concerns about his suitability for a postseason rotation spot.
Dodgers Blast 4 HRs, Ohtani Ties Record
The Dodgers unleashed a powerful response in the bottom of the first, launching four homers off Cubs left-hander Jordan Wicks to seize a 5-2 lead. Shohei Ohtani ignited the onslaught with a scorching 118-mph home run, his 47th of the season, tying him with Cody Bellinger for third on the franchise’s single-season home run list.
Tommy Edman followed with a two-run homer, and Will Smith added a solo shot, both sailing to left field. Max Muncy capped the explosive inning with a towering blast to right, marking the second time this season the Dodgers have hit three consecutive homers and four in a single inning.
Shohei Ohtani responded with a clutch two-out single, driving in two runs and stretching the Dodgers’ lead.
Cubs Load Bases on Dodgers’ Error
Pete Crow-Armstrong capitalized on the mistake with an RBI single to right, tying the game at 7-7. The inning ended with Christian Bethancourt striking out, leaving the score deadlocked.
Ohtani’s impressive stats – .292 average, 47 home runs, and 104 RBIs – outshine Francisco Lindor’s numbers, fueling their MVP rivalry.
Manager Dave Roberts notes the debate around a DH winning MVP, likening it to a pitcher’s candidacy, and emphasizes that outstanding performance should trump position in MVP consideration.
Ohtani’s MVP Case Heats Up
Ohtani’s potential to join Frank Robinson as the only players to win MVPs in both leagues adds to his compelling case. As the season unfolds, the debate will likely intensify, with Ohtani’s impressive statistics and Lindor’s defensive prowess making strong arguments for each player.
Manager Dave Roberts emphasized the significance of Shohei Ohtani’s pursuit of a 50-50 season, stating that achieving this unprecedented feat would unequivocally separate him from the field.
Ohtani edges Lindor in Baseball Reference’s WAR (7.2 to 6.5), while Lindor leads in Fangraphs’ model (7.2 to 6.8).
Roberts notes Ohtani’s unprecedented performance has been incredibly valuable to the team across 600 plate appearances.
Maintaining excellence over 600 plate appearances showcases Ohtani’s exceptional talent and dedication, says Roberts.
Roberts emphasizes Ohtani’s impressive durability, highlighting his ability to sustain a high level of performance throughout the season.
With 600 plate appearances under his belt, Ohtani’s remarkable consistency and durability solidify his case for MVP, earning Roberts’ admiration and praise.
Ohtani’s WAR lead and historic season solidify his MVP case, with Roberts’ endorsement further bolstering his candidacy.” The manager’s comments underscore Ohtani’s remarkable season and strengthen his case for the NL MVP award.
In Conclusion, Shohei Ohtani’s impressive performance brings him closer to the 50-50 milestone, solidifying his case for MVP as the Dodgers secure a thrilling win over the Cubs. Ride on to read some of our latest update on SPORTVIEW2
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