Ohtani’s Monster Home Run
On the 23rd, the Los Angeles Dodgers reclaimed a win against the Angels at home, thanks to Shohei Ohtani’s 459-foot monster home run off starter Zach Plesac in the third inning. The homer, Ohtani’s 23rd of the season, had an exit velocity of 115.5 mph. Plesac, who joined the Angels after Ohtani left, previously pitched for the Guardians. The Dodgers won 7-2, tying the series 1-1. The teams will next meet in September, marking Ohtani’s first return to Angel Stadium this year.
Plesac’s Struggles Continue
Zach Plesac, who has a history of injuries from frustration, struggled against the Dodgers. In 2021, he injured his thumb after tearing his shirt in anger during a game against the Twins. In 2022, he broke his hand by punching the mound after giving up three home runs in a game. Against the Dodgers, Plesac allowed six runs and two home runs in 3.1 innings. Gavin Lux hit a solo home run in the third inning, followed by a two-run shot from Ohtani after Cavan Biggio’s single. Freddie Freeman and Andy Pages added doubles to extend the lead. Fortunately, Plesac remained composed and was replaced in the fourth inning when Ohtani was due to bat again.
Ohtani’s Stellar Season Continues
Ohtani went 1-for-4 with a home run and a walk, maintaining his lead in the National League with 23 home runs and a .321 batting average. Despite batting in the top of the order, he ranks third in the National League with 57 RBIs. This marks the second time this season Ohtani has homered in three consecutive games, and he has hit monster home runs of over 450 feet in two straight games.
Dodgers’ Offensive Power
The Dodgers’ offense was strong, with nine hits and seven runs. Gavin Lux set the tone with his solo homer in the third inning. Following Biggio’s single, Ohtani hit his two-run homer. Freeman and Pages added doubles, furthering the lead. Tyler Glasnow pitched seven innings, allowing only two runs and striking out ten, earning his eighth win of the season and lowering his ERA to 2.88.
Upcoming Showdown
The next face-off between the Dodgers and the Angels is highly anticipated, with fans looking forward to seeing if Ohtani can continue his hot streak and maintain his position as the National League home run leader. The September series will be a crucial test for both teams as they push towards the postseason. (Panalo999)