Shohei Ohtani, the two-time AL MVP, has the potential to improve even further by exercising more discipline at the plate, especially with runners in scoring position. This is according to Dave Roberts, the manager of the Los Angeles Dodgers, who recently had a conversation with Ohtani about how he could better control the strike zone.
Roberts noticed that Ohtani was expanding his strikes more than necessary and believed that if he could improve his discipline, he would become an even more formidable opponent. On Sunday, Ohtani hit his 176th home run, surpassing Hideki Matsui for the most home runs in Major League Baseball among players born in Japan. Going into Tuesday night’s game in Washington, Ohtani led the major leagues in several categories, including batting average, hits, doubles, and total bases.
Ohtani’s ability to change the game with his bat is undeniable. Despite having undergone elbow surgery last September and not pitching this season, he made a bold move by leaving the Los Angeles Angels and signing a record-breaking $700 million, 10-year contract with the Dodgers in December. Since joining the Dodgers, Ohtani has been seen getting comfortable with his new surroundings and bonding with his teammates and coaches. Roberts noted that Ohtani’s hitting coaches have been establishing a good relationship and trust with him. This increased presence is seen as a positive development in Ohtani’s integration with the team.
