In what can only be described as a postseason nightmare, Shohei Ohtani's highly anticipated playoff debut with the Los Angeles Dodgers turned into a crushing disappointment against the Milwaukee Brewers. The Japanese superstar, who signed a record-breaking $700 million contract, failed to deliver when it mattered most.
Ohtani's Postseason Struggle
The two-way phenomenon endured a brutal night at the plate, going 0-for-5 with three strikeouts in critical situations. Ohtani looked uncharacteristically vulnerable against Milwaukee's pitching staff, particularly struggling with high fastballs that left him swinging at air.
Brewers Capitalise on Dodgers' Weakness
Milwaukee's game plan against Ohtani proved masterful, with Brewers pitchers consistently attacking the zone and forcing the Dodgers slugger into uncomfortable at-bats. The Brewers' defence also shone, making several spectacular plays to rob Ohtani of potential hits.
What This Means for the Dodgers
This performance raises serious questions about Los Angeles' postseason prospects. With Ohtani struggling to find his rhythm and the Dodgers' offence sputtering, manager Dave Roberts faces mounting pressure to adjust his lineup and strategy before the series shifts to Milwaukee.
The Brewers, meanwhile, demonstrated why they shouldn't be underestimated in the National League playoff picture. Their combination of dominant pitching and timely hitting exposed vulnerabilities in a Dodgers team many considered World Series favourites.
