Ohtani's Gem Wasted: Dodgers' Bullpen Blows Another Game

David

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Post on Sep 18, 2025

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Ohtani's Gem Wasted: Dodgers' Bullpen Blows Another Game, Falling to Angels

Shohei Ohtani delivered a masterful pitching performance, but the Los Angeles Dodgers' bullpen squandered another late-game lead, handing the Angels a heartbreaking 6-5 victory. The loss underscores a growing concern for the Dodgers: their inconsistent relief pitching.

The game, a nail-biter from start to finish, saw Ohtani dominate the Dodgers' lineup for six innings, allowing just one run on four hits while striking out eight. His performance was nothing short of electrifying, showcasing the two-way star's exceptional talent. This outing further cemented his status as one of baseball's most exciting and valuable players. He even added a crucial RBI single, showcasing his offensive prowess alongside his pitching dominance.

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Ohtani's Dominance on the Mound

Ohtani's performance was a masterclass in pitching. His fastball consistently touched 98 mph, complemented by a devastating splitter and slider that kept Dodgers batters off balance throughout his outing. The Angels' ace showed incredible command and precision, painting the corners and generating weak contact. It was a performance that deserved a victory.

• Fastball Velocity: Consistently in the 97-98 mph range
• Impressive Strikeouts: Eight strikeouts in six innings
• Minimal Hits: Only four hits allowed

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The Dodgers' Bullpen Meltdown

Despite Ohtani's brilliance, the Dodgers' bullpen couldn't hold onto the lead, a recurring theme this season. After a solid start from their starter, the relief corps imploded in the late innings, surrendering five runs. This collapse continues a worrying trend for the Dodgers, raising serious questions about their postseason potential. The bullpen's struggles are not new; it's been a point of contention for fans and analysts alike. This latest debacle only amplifies those concerns.

This loss highlights a critical need for improvement in the Dodgers' bullpen. Manager Dave Roberts will undoubtedly be under pressure to address the issue, potentially through strategic roster moves or adjustments to pitching strategies. The question remains: can they fix these issues before the playoffs?

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Impact on the NL West Race

The loss puts a dent in the Dodgers' quest for the NL West title, giving the Giants and Diamondbacks a chance to close the gap. The inconsistent performance of the bullpen significantly impacts their chances in the tight divisional race. Every game from here on out will be crucial. The pressure is mounting, and the need for immediate bullpen improvements is evident.

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Looking Ahead

The Dodgers need to find answers quickly. Their offensive firepower can only do so much; their pitching, particularly the bullpen, must consistently deliver if they want to contend for a World Series title. The coming weeks will be critical in determining whether they can overcome this weakness and make a serious playoff run. Can they fix their bullpen woes? Only time will tell. The coming games will be crucial in assessing their chances of postseason success.

Keywords: Shohei Ohtani, Los Angeles Dodgers, Los Angeles Angels, MLB, Baseball, Bullpen, Relief Pitching, NL West, Postseason, Playoffs, Dave Roberts, Shohei Ohtani pitching performance, Dodgers bullpen struggles

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