Image Source: Los Angeles Times
Shohei Ohtani enters the National League Championship Series searching for his swing, but the Los Angeles Dodgers remain convinced that a breakout could arrive at any moment. Ohtani went two for 13 during the Dodgers’ National League Division Series victory over the Atlanta Braves, prompting questions about whether his struggles could continue against the Milwaukee Brewers.
The four-time MVP spent Saturday preparing at American Family Field ahead of Game 1. Rather than treating the slump as a crisis, Ohtani and the Dodgers used the workout as an opportunity to make small mechanical adjustments and rebuild confidence before the pressure of October baseball intensified.
Shohei Ohtani prepares for a critical NLCS test
Ohtani took extended batting practice on the field, an unusual routine for him this season. He hit several balls deep into the right-center-field seats, providing an encouraging glimpse of the power that has made him one of baseball’s most dangerous hitters.
Dodgers hitting coach Aaron Bates said Ohtani wanted to experience a new setting and work through his swing away from the usual game environment. The session also followed conversations between Ohtani and Mookie Betts, who discussed hitting over the previous several days.
According to Bates, Ohtani has been concentrating on staying comfortable in his setup and avoiding an early rollover of his top hand. The goal is to keep his effort level controlled, remain on the ball longer and produce a more consistent swing path.
- Ohtani recorded two singles in the first two games of the NLDS.
- His batting order position dropped to fifth and fourth in Games 3 and 4.
- He will face Brewers right-hander Jacob Misiorowski in Game 1.
- Dodgers coaches believe a relaxed approach could help him recover his timing.
Dave Roberts refuses to count Ohtani out
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has repeatedly expressed confidence in Ohtani, even as the star hitter has struggled to produce extra-base hits. Roberts said the time away from a game environment could benefit Ohtani physically and mentally.
“I’m just never going to count Shohei out,” Roberts said, emphasizing that his belief is based on Ohtani’s talent and track record rather than a single statistic or short-term slump.
Ohtani still made an important contribution during the NLDS. In Game 4, he drew a five-pitch walk, stole second base and scored after taking advantage of defensive mistakes by Atlanta. Although he did not drive in runs with his bat, his plate discipline and baserunning helped the Dodgers advance.
Roberts also noted that Ohtani showed better swings outside his matchup against Braves ace Chris Sale. The Dodgers believe improved strike-zone control, rather than an attempt to force power, will be central to his turnaround.
Jacob Misiorowski presents a formidable challenge
Breaking out against Milwaukee will not be easy. Ohtani is scheduled to face Jacob Misiorowski, a Brewers ace who has raised his performance level during his second major-league season and emerged as one of the toughest pitchers in the postseason.
Misiorowski said Ohtani’s recent numbers will not change his approach. The pitcher plans to attack him as though he is still facing the best hitter in the world, relying on his pitches and execution rather than assuming the slump will continue.
That approach reflects the respect Ohtani commands. Even when his bat is quiet, opposing pitchers remain cautious because one mistake can change an entire playoff game. The Dodgers star also has a history of responding dramatically after difficult stretches.
Last October, Ohtani entered a postseason series in a one-for-18 slump. He began slowly again before delivering a historic Game 4 performance that included three home runs and six shutout innings on the mound. The Dodgers are not expecting history to repeat itself exactly, but that example continues to fuel their optimism.
Why Ohtani’s swing matters to Los Angeles
The Dodgers have a deep pitching staff and several capable hitters, but Ohtani remains central to their championship hopes. His presence affects how opponents structure their entire game plan, even when he is not producing at his usual level.
Milwaukee’s pitchers are unlikely to give Ohtani easy opportunities. Roberts expects them to challenge his discipline and avoid careless mistakes. For Ohtani, the immediate task is straightforward: control the strike zone, trust his preparation and allow his natural ability to return.
The NLCS opener will show whether Saturday’s work produced an immediate change. For now, the Dodgers are choosing patience over panic—and betting that Ohtani’s next defining moment may be closer than it appears.
Frequently asked questions
How did Shohei Ohtani perform in the NLDS?
Ohtani went two for 13 at the plate during the Dodgers’ NLDS matchup with the Atlanta Braves. His two hits were singles.
Who will Shohei Ohtani face in NLCS Game 1?
Ohtani is expected to face Milwaukee Brewers ace Jacob Misiorowski in the opening game of the National League Championship Series.
What adjustments is Ohtani making?
He has been working on his setup, delaying the rollover of his top hand and maintaining a controlled finish to keep his swing consistent.
Does Dave Roberts expect Ohtani to break out?
Yes. Roberts said he continues to believe in Ohtani’s talent and will not count him out despite the recent slump.
