Ohtani’s Homer Leads Dodgers in NL Wild Card Opener

Shohei Ohtani started the MLB postseason with a bang. The Los Dodgers superstar homered on the first pitch he saw in Tuesday’s NL Wild Card Series. His leadoff blast gave the Dodgers an immediate 1-0 lead against the Cincinnati Reds. The game took place at a packed Dodger Stadium.

This powerful start launches the Dodgers’ defense of their World Series title. According to Reuters, the moment was electric as the ball sailed into the right field pavilion.

Ohtani’s Immediate Playoff Impact

Reds starter Hunter Greene briefly struggled with his PitchCom device. This caused a short delay before the historic at-bat. Ohtani took practice swings while Greene and his catcher resolved the technical issue.

Greene then threw a 100 mph fastball. Ohtani connected perfectly for a 375-foot home run. The sold-out crowd erupted as the ball cleared the fence.

A New Chapter for a Postseason Star

This playoff appearance is a significant milestone for Ohtani. He never reached the postseason during his six years with the Los Angeles Angels. His regular season performance set the stage for this moment, having hit a career-high 55 home runs.

His potential impact is not limited to hitting. Manager Dave Roberts indicated Ohtani could start a potential Game 3. This would mark his long-awaited postseason pitching debut.

Shohei Ohtani’s immediate playoff success signals a formidable Dodgers lineup. His legendary regular season has seamlessly transitioned to October.

Dropping this nugget your way

Q1: How many leadoff home runs does Ohtani have this season?

Ohtani hit his 13th leadoff home run of the 2024 season in this game. This set the tone for the Dodgers’ playoff opener against the Reds.

Q2: Did Shohei Ohtani pitch in the game?

No, Ohtani did not pitch in Game 1. He was solely the designated hitter for this contest.

Q3: Could Ohtani pitch later in this series?

Yes, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said Ohtani would “probably” start a decisive Game 3. This would be his first career postseason pitching appearance.

Q4: What was Ohtani’s regular season home run total?

Shohei Ohtani hit a career-best 55 home runs during the 2024 regular season. This surpassed his previous high from the year before.

Q5: Why is this playoff run significant for Ohtani?

This is Ohtani’s first-ever MLB postseason appearance. His former team, the Los Angeles Angels, never made the playoffs during his six seasons there.