Dave Roberts called it an easy decision, but it had serious fallout.
In the fifth inning of the game against the Philadelphia Phillies, Shohei Ohtani made his way back to the Dodgers’ dugout after a stellar inning on the mound. Manager Dave Roberts approached him to check in. Ohtani had just pitched five hitless innings, throwing only 68 pitches. Under normal circumstances, most pitchers would get a chance to keep going.
But Ohtani isn’t just any pitcher. He’s a unique talent who recently returned from Tommy John surgery. The Dodgers have been cautious with his workload, gradually increasing his innings this season. Recently, they agreed to limit him to five innings until at least October, focusing on his health above all.
Ohtani assured Roberts he felt good. Still, Roberts had already made his mind up: Ohtani wouldn’t pitch the sixth inning. He explained it was about long-term health, not immediate results. “He’s too important,” Roberts said.
This decision left the Dodgers’ bullpen to manage the game. Unfortunately, they faltered, allowing nine runs in four innings. It was a hard blow, leading to a 9-6 defeat.
Ohtani had dominated while he was on the mound. His fastball topped 101 mph, and his mix of pitches kept the Phillies at bay. After walking Bryce Harper in the first inning, he retired the next 13 batters. This raised questions about why he was pulled at the height of his performance.
Despite the bullpen’s collapse, Ohtani made headlines with his bat, hitting his 50th home run of the season in the eighth inning. This feat puts him among just six players in MLB history with consecutive 50-homer seasons.
Despite Ohtani’s heroics, the Dodgers’ bullpen struggles continued. In the ninth inning, Blake Treinen gave up a three-run homer, sealing the game. The loss stung, overshadowing Ohtani’s remarkable moments on the field.
This situation reflects a larger trend in baseball where team management often prioritizes player safety and long-term health over immediate outcomes—a philosophy backed by sports science research. According to a study published by the Journal of Sports Medicine, athletes returning from injuries should be monitored closely to prevent recurrence and long-term issues.
The Dodgers’ management appears to be embracing this philosophy. However, the fallout from their bullpen’s performance raises eyebrows, especially as the postseason approaches. Will the cautious approach pay off? Time will tell.
For now, Ohtani’s brilliance is evident, but the team must address its relief issues to turn this season into a success.
Source link
