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Shohei Ohtani is not immune to slumps.
The Los Angeles Dodgers' two-way star has proven that recently, but he still remains the favorite to capture another NL MVP honor.
With Ohtani hitless in his 17 at-bats and out of Tuesday's batting order for his third straight pitching start, MLB insiders are beginning to debate if the physical and mental tolls are beginning to catch up to the international star.
Is it too convenient to suggest Ohtani's annual hitting slump hinges on his additional pitching responsibilities? The fact is, every player slumps at some point during a season. In 2024, Ohtani didn't pitch, and he still hit .139 during a 17-game stretch in July and August.
When Ohtani emerges from his offensive lull, he often carries a team for several months. He retains that ability.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts is learning to balance Ohtani's offensive and defensive efforts.
"The health part, appreciating there's a long way to go," Roberts said, as reported by DodgersNation.com. "That's the main thing. Having him do both duties, how sustainable is it without taking a bit off his plate."
Dodgers' Shohei Ohtani eyes top pitching award
Ohtani is targeting an NL Cy Young award.
Healthy as a pitcher for the first time since 2023, Ohtani (2-1) was slated to start against the Houston Astros at Daikin Park. Through five starts, the reigning NL Pitcher of the Month posted a 0.60 earned-run average with 34 strikeouts and nine walks in 30 innings.
The four-time NL MVP was not listed in the batting lineup, apparently giving Ohtani an opportunity to focus on his pitching and provide minimal rest for his 31-year-old body.
He was hitting .240 with a .432 slugging percentage, which would rank as the second-lowest of his career. His 125 WRC+ would be his lowest since 2020.
Slumping Shohei Ohtani
Here is a look at Shohei Ohtani's worst batting slumps over his previous five seasons:
Dates, Games, Batting Average
- June 28-July 30, 2025, 26, .188
- July 28-Aug. 16, 2024, 17, .139
- May 8-29, 2023, 23, .205
- April 7-May 7, 2022, 28, .234
- Aug. 21-Sept. 24, 2021, 29, .181
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