The Los Angeles Dodgers finally have their full lineup, and everything seems to be clicking for them offensively with the big three of Shohei Ohtani, Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman starting them off every game.
A lot has changed for the Dodgers’ lineup this season, going into the year with a stacked group that was decimated by injuries and underperforming options at the bottom of the lineup.
Their key loss was Mookie Betts when he suffered a fracture in his hand that kept him out multiple months. Prior to that point, Betts was the leadoff hitter and spark plug for the squad.
One development that came about was how comfortable and effective Ohtani was filling in for Betts in the leadoff spot. Even when Betts returned, Ohtani remained in the leadoff spot, pushing Betts to second in the lineup, a place where he has not hit often in his career.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said that the decision was not influenced by Ohtani’s wishes in any form and was more so a product of constructing a lineup that gives the Dodgers the best opportunity to win games.
“Absolutely not. Shohei would hit anywhere,” Roberts said. “So I know that Mookie said that, but Shohei has said the same thing that Mookie said, ‘Wherever you want me to hit, I’ll hit.’ I think for me, the game is telling us who we have on our roster, as far as Shohei and Freddie.
“It’s telling me that Shohei should lead off and you need to split those lefties up. So I didn’t honestly have to have a conversation with Shohei.”
Betts does recognize the differences hitting second in the order compared to leading off, but made the necessary adjustments and has thrived batting behind Ohtani.
Shohei Ohtani setting records from leadoff spot
Ohtani had two extra-base hits when the Dodgers began their series against the Arizona Diamondbacks on Friday, which included his 43rd home run of the season. That came after the superstar talent also stole his 43rd base, becoming the first player to reach that many in both categories during the same year.
In addition, it marked the sixth game in August that Ohtani had at least one home run and one stolen base. That gave him the MLB record for most such games in one calendar month.
Have you subscribed to the Dodger Blue YouTube channel? Be sure to ring the notification bell to watch player interviews, participate in shows and giveaways, and stay up to date on all Dodgers news and rumors!
