Ohtani Takes Rare On-Field Batting Practice Amid Offensive Slump
Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani engaged in rare on-field batting practice before Monday's series opener against the San Francisco Giants at Dodger Stadium. This unusual pregame routine, occurring roughly two hours before first pitch, saw Ohtani hit several home runs, including one that cleared the Right Field Pavilion roof. The session marks his third on-field practice of the 2026 season, a significant increase from previous years, as he attempts to correct a recent offensive slump. Since April 26, Ohtani has gone ten games without a home run and is batting just .200 over his last 16 games. Manager Dave Roberts noted that Ohtani appears out of sync, resulting in popups rather than extra-base hits, but confirmed there are no plans to remove him from the leadoff spot. The Dodgers' management hopes this adjusted routine, which allows Ohtani to better track the ball's path, will help restore his typical production and energize the broader lineup, which has also struggled recently. The event highlights the team's reliance on Ohtani to set the offensive tone despite his current statistical dip below his usual elite standards.
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Ohtani Takes Rare On-Field Batting Practice Amid Offensive Slump
Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani engaged in rare on-field batting practice before Monday's series opener against the San Francisco Giants at Dodger Stadium. This unusual pregame routine, occurring roughly two hours before first pitch, saw Ohtani hit several home runs, including one that cleared the Right Field Pavilion roof. The session marks his third on-field practice of the 2026 season, a significant increase from previous years, as he attempts to correct a recent offensive slump. Since April 26, Ohtani has gone ten games without a home run and is batting just .200 over his last 16 games. Manager Dave Roberts noted that Ohtani appears out of sync, resulting in popups rather than extra-base hits, but confirmed there are no plans to remove him from the leadoff spot. The Dodgers' management hopes this adjusted routine, which allows Ohtani to better track the ball's path, will help restore his typical production and energize the broader lineup, which has also struggled recently. The event highlights the team's reliance on Ohtani to set the offensive tone despite his current statistical dip below his usual elite standards.
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