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Ohtani Strong on Mound, Dodgers' Offense Remains Silent

PUBLISHED May 5, 2026, 1:49 AM ET

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Media Bias Meter

Sources: 5

Center 80%

Right 20%

Sources: 5

HOUSTON. Shohei Ohtani pitched seven innings Tuesday at Daikin Park, allowing two solo home runs and striking out eight in an 89-pitch outing, but the Los Angeles Dodgers' offense produced only one run and lost 2-1; Ohtani had not recorded a hit for a week leading up to the appearance. This week the Dodgers continued to debate two-way usage as manager Dave Roberts sat Ohtani from the lineup for his third pitching-only start in four outings; team leaders and reporters noted the club's ongoing offensive drought, and Ohtani stated Tuesday he does not believe pitching is affecting his hitting as coaches consider lineup and role adjustments.

By Emily Rhodes | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

Prior to Monday: Ohtani had a week-long hitless streak, his longest in four years.
Monday 2:38 p.m. CT: Ohtani took on-field batting practice; Dodgers later won 8-3 that night, breaking a homer drought.
Tuesday: Ohtani started on the mound, threw seven innings, allowed two solo homers, struck out eight, and was charged with a 2-1 loss.
Tuesday postgame: Manager Dave Roberts noted Ohtani's batting sessions often help; Ohtani said pitching was not hurting his hitting.
Following games: Media and team officials continued evaluating Ohtani's two-way workload and the Dodgers' offensive adjustments.

News Intelligence

If you're a Dodgers fan, Ohtani's performance is crucial. His dual role as a pitcher and hitter can be a game-changer. His recent struggles at bat might be concerning. Keep an eye on how the team adjusts his role.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 5
Right Leaning:: 1
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 4

Who Benefited

Opposing teams, notably the Houston Astros in the Tuesday game, benefited when the Dodgers' lineup produced only one run, enabling opponents to win despite Ohtani's quality start.

Who Impacted

The Los Angeles Dodgers and Shohei Ohtani suffered from continued offensive struggles; Ohtani delivered seven strong innings but the team's lack of run support resulted in a 2-1 defeat.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 5
Right Leaning:: 1
Left Leaning:: 0
Neutral:: 4
Distribution:: Left 0%, Center 80%, Right 20%

Who Benefited

Opposing teams, notably the Houston Astros in the Tuesday game, benefited when the Dodgers' lineup produced only one run, enabling opponents to win despite Ohtani's quality start.

Who Impacted

The Los Angeles Dodgers and Shohei Ohtani suffered from continued offensive struggles; Ohtani delivered seven strong innings but the team's lack of run support resulted in a 2-1 defeat.