Steve Webb
LOS ANGELES, CA — In a pregame interview on Friday, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts shared his thoughts on Shohei Ohtani‘s outstanding performance in Thursday’s win against the Miami Marlins. According to Roberts, Ohtani’s hitting display was nothing short of remarkable, calling it “the single best game” he has ever witnessed in his baseball career. Reflecting on the game, Roberts compared Ohtani’s performance to other standout moments in baseball history, emphasizing the significance of Ohtani’s achievement.
Roberts highlighted that, although he has seen incredible individual games in the past, nothing quite compares to what Ohtani did on the field that day. The manager mentioned how the fans were captivated by Ohtani’s presence, with many standing in awe during his at-bats, even in a visiting ballpark. It’s a testament to Ohtani’s impact not only as a player but also as an ambassador for the sport.
Roberts also praised Ohtani’s mentality, noting that the Japanese phenom rarely shows much outward emotion but that his excitement after Thursday’s game was evident. Ohtani, known for his calm and focused demeanor, embraced his teammates and shared a rare emotional moment in the dugout after his milestone performance. “I thought you saw that last night,” Roberts commented, referring to Ohtani’s visible joy.
With the postseason approaching, Roberts expressed his excitement about Ohtani’s potential impact in October. Ohtani has never had the opportunity to participate in the postseason, and Roberts believes the world is eager to see what he can achieve on the biggest stage in baseball. “He will be very prepared and focused to give us a chance to win,” Roberts said, underlining Ohtani’s readiness for the high-pressure games ahead.
Roberts was also asked about Ohtani’s milestone achievements, which have undoubtedly eased some of the pressure on the star. Reaching those marks, Roberts believes, allows Ohtani to focus on continuing to help the team without the weight of chasing individual records.
As the Dodgers continue to battle for a top playoff spot, Roberts is optimistic about Ohtani’s role in the team’s postseason run. He acknowledged that securing a higher seed would be beneficial, as it would allow the team a few extra days of rest—a valuable commodity, especially given the wear and tear of the long season.
In conclusion, Roberts’ admiration for Ohtani’s talents is clear. Whether it’s the fans standing in awe during his at-bats or his quiet determination to help the Dodgers win, Ohtani’s impact on the game is undeniable.
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