Steve Webb
LOS ANGELES, CA — Shohei Ohtani’s first postseason game with the Dodgers in Game 1 of the NLDS proved to be a memorable one, as he played a crucial role in the team’s 7-5 win over the Padres. Ohtani, who joined the Dodgers this season, hit a key home run in his second at-bat that tied the game and shifted the momentum in favor of the Dodgers.
Reflecting on the game, Ohtani described the atmosphere as electrifying from the start. “From the beginning, I felt a sense of tension, but it was a really fun game overall,” he said. His home run, which came off a high fastball from one of the Padres’ top pitchers, was a special moment for him. “It was tough facing such an elite pitcher, but to hit a home run off him in that situation felt really special,” Ohtani remarked.
Ohtani has played in high-stakes games before, including the World Baseball Classic (WBC), but he noted that the postseason atmosphere in the MLB felt different, particularly because of the Dodgers’ passionate fanbase. “It’s hard to compare to the WBC or games back in Japan, but playing in front of fans who supported us all year made this game feel equally special,” he said.
The game wasn’t just about Ohtani’s homer, however. The Dodgers found themselves down 3-0 early, but they rallied to tie the game, eventually winning 7-5. Ohtani acknowledged the difficulty of the first game of a postseason series, especially after a long layoff. “I think everyone felt a bit stiff in the beginning, but we were able to tie the game early, and our bullpen was fantastic,” he said. “The way the lineup connected in the later innings was amazing, and that’s what helped us win.”
When asked about his focus during such an intense game, Ohtani explained how he manages to keep his emotions in check at the plate. “I try to stay focused on my swing and keep it steady. Even though there’s excitement in the postseason, I want to make sure each at-bat counts,” he said. He also mentioned that he was pleased with his approach, especially given how challenging it can be to face top-tier pitchers like the one he hit the home run off.
The experience of his first postseason game was not lost on Ohtani. Although he has experienced the pressures of a long MLB season, the postseason brought a different kind of intensity. “It’s my first time playing in a postseason game here, and it was such a fun and incredible experience,” he said, reflecting on how he thrives in these high-pressure situations.
Ohtani’s ability to stay calm and focused stood out to both fans and reporters, despite the chaotic energy of the game. “Honestly, I don’t really do anything special to calm myself down,” Ohtani admitted. “When I step into the batter’s box, I automatically focus on each pitch. I don’t even remember much from my at-bats because I’m so concentrated in the moment.”
His home run, as well as his poise and experience, will be crucial as the Dodgers move forward in the series. Ohtani’s contribution helped set the tone for the rest of the team, and his calm under pressure is likely to be an asset as the Dodgers aim for a deep postseason run.
With Game 1 behind them and Ohtani shining on one of baseball’s biggest stages, the Dodgers look poised to keep their momentum going in the NLDS.
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