While still tied atop the National League West division, the Los Angeles Dodgers are experiencing a notable downturn in performance. The struggles of their star player, Shohei Ohtani, may perfectly encapsulate the team's current difficulties.
Dodgers' Recent Performance
The Dodgers have lost seven of their last eleven games and have not secured three consecutive victories since April 28. During this period, they have lost series to the Miami Marlins and the St. Louis Cardinals—two teams with payrolls exceeding $200 million less than their own.
Over the weekend, the Dodgers lost yet another series, this time to the NL East-leading Atlanta Braves, with a pair of 7-2 defeats sealing their fate. The team's inability to maintain consistency has raised concerns among fans and analysts alike.
Shohei Ohtani's Slump
Perhaps the most surprising aspect of the Dodgers' recent struggles is the slump that two-way star Shohei Ohtani has been experiencing. The Japanese sensation has not been performing up to the standard expected of his $700 million contract, particularly during the start of May.
Ohtani has not hit a home run this month and managed only two hits in twelve at-bats during the series against Atlanta. Through May, he has gone a shocking 4-for-31 at the plate, with just one extra-base hit and three RBIs across eight games. His slash line stands at a worrisome .129/.250/.161 during this period.
As a result, the Dodgers have surrendered their sole lead in the NL West and now share the top spot with their rivals, the San Diego Padres.
Pitching Woes
Ohtani's pitching has not been much better. He lost his only start of the month against the Houston Astros, giving up two home runs in a 2-1 defeat. For the season, Ohtani has hit only six home runs in 141 plate appearances, though his overall slash line is a more respectable .241/.374/.418, with 16 RBIs. On the mound, he holds a 2-2 record with a 0.97 ERA, having allowed just four earned runs and those two home runs to the Astros.
Looking Ahead
Ohtani and the Dodgers will aim to rebound in a four-game home series against their rivals, the San Francisco Giants. The team hopes to regain their winning form and re-establish their dominance in the division.
