What's Happening?
Shohei Ohtani, the Los Angeles Dodgers' two-way star, made an unexpected change to his pre-game routine by taking on-field batting practice before Game 3 of the National League Championship Series against the Milwaukee Brewers. Typically, Ohtani prefers
to practice his hitting in the cage, but a slump during the NL Division Series and NLCS prompted him to try something different. This change appeared to pay off, as Ohtani delivered a historic performance in Game 4, going 3-for-3 with three home runs and pitching six shutout innings with 10 strikeouts. As the Dodgers prepare for the World Series against the Toronto Blue Jays, Ohtani continues to take on-field batting practice, a move he attributes to wanting to perform certain actions that can only be done on the field. Ohtani's decision to alter his routine has sparked curiosity, but he remains cryptic about the specifics, stating, 'That's a secret.'
Why It's Important?
Ohtani's decision to change his routine and the subsequent success highlights the importance of adaptability in professional sports. His ability to break out of a slump and deliver a standout performance underscores his value to the Dodgers, especially as they head into the World Series. Ohtani's actions could influence other players to reconsider their routines and adapt when necessary. For the Dodgers, Ohtani's resurgence is crucial as they aim to secure another World Series title. His performance not only boosts team morale but also increases their chances of success against the Blue Jays. The broader impact on MLB includes potential shifts in how players approach preparation and the emphasis on flexibility in training regimens.
What's Next?
As the World Series begins, all eyes will be on Ohtani to see if he can maintain his momentum. He is set to lead off Game 1 as a hitter and will pitch in either Game 3 or 4. The Dodgers will rely heavily on his dual-threat capabilities to gain an advantage over the Blue Jays. Ohtani's performance could set the tone for the series and influence the Dodgers' strategy. Additionally, his continued success may prompt discussions among MLB teams about the benefits of routine changes and adaptability in player development.
