Dodgers boss highlights Ohtani’s slump after 0‑4 night versus Cardinals

Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts expressed concern over Shohei Ohtani’s performance on Wednesday, noting the two‑way star was "not close to optimal" after a quiet 0‑for‑4 line that included four strikeouts in the team’s 8‑6 defeat to the St. Louis Cardinals. ESPN reported that Ohtani’s lack of production contributed to the loss, prompting Roberts to weigh giving the player a day off to recover.

The game marked a rare offensive drought for Ohtani, who has been a central figure for the Dodgers since his trade from the Angels last season. Prior to Wednesday, he was batting .287 with 12 home runs and had already logged 20 innings on the mound, showcasing his unique value as both a power hitter and a starting pitcher. The abrupt dip in his output raised questions about his health, especially after a stretch of back‑to‑back games that included a 110‑pitch outing against the San Diego Padres.

In the broader context of the Dodgers’ campaign, Ohtani’s health is pivotal. The club sits near the top of the National League West and relies heavily on his dual‑role contributions to sustain its offensive firepower and pitching depth. Historically, teams have been cautious with players who shoulder such workloads, often inserting rest days after a series of high‑intensity outings to prevent injury and preserve long‑term performance. Roberts’ comment aligns with that cautious approach, suggesting the coaching staff may prioritize Ohtani’s longevity over short‑term gains.

While the Cardinals capitalized on the Dodgers’ missteps, turning a tight contest into a two‑run victory, the focus now shifts to how Los Angeles will manage Ohtani’s schedule moving forward. If the player does indeed take a day off, it could set a precedent for more deliberate workload monitoring throughout the season, a strategy that other clubs have adopted to protect their marquee talents.

Roberts did not disclose any specific injury, but his remarks underscore the delicate balance teams must strike when handling a player of Ohtani’s caliber. As the Dodgers look to maintain their playoff push, the next few games will reveal whether a brief respite helps the star regain his optimal form.