Dodgers Bullpen Fails to Support Ohtani’s Historic Performance

In a thrilling matchup on September 16, 2025, Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Shohei Ohtani delivered an exceptional performance, throwing five hitless innings against the Philadelphia Phillies. Despite Ohtani’s impressive outing, the Dodgers’ bullpen faltered once again, leading to a 9-6 defeat that raised concerns about the team’s postseason readiness.

Ohtani’s Stellar Start

Ohtani, who has made headlines for his unique ability to excel as both a pitcher and a hitter, showcased his skills on the mound by striking out five batters and allowing just one baserunner—a walk to Bryce Harper in the first inning. His fastball averaged an impressive 99.2 mph, and his signature sweeper pitch was particularly effective, as noted by Dodgers manager Dave Roberts. This outing was especially significant for Ohtani as it marked his return to the mound after a second elbow repair, and he became the first player in MLB history to hit 50 home runs and strike out 50 batters in a single season.

As the fifth inning concluded, Ohtani was eager to continue pitching. However, Roberts, mindful of Ohtani’s health and the team’s strategy, opted to pull him from the game. “He wasn’t going to go back out,” Roberts explained. “We’ve been very steadfast in every situation as far as inning for his usage… I would’ve loved to have had him go out there, but if our conversation was, ‘If he’s efficient, he can go to the sixth inning,’ that’s a different conversation.”

The Bullpen Collapse

After Ohtani’s departure, rookie left-hander Justin Wrobleski took the mound, inheriting a 4-0 lead. Unfortunately, he quickly surrendered that advantage, allowing the Phillies to score five runs in a single inning. The sequence began with three consecutive singles from Harrison Bader, Kyle Schwarber, and Bryce Harper, followed by a two-run double from Harper and a three-run homer from Brandon Marsh. This sudden turnaround left the Dodgers trailing 5-4, and the crowd of 44,063 at Dodger Stadium expressed their frustration with loud boos directed at Roberts.

The Dodgers managed to tie the game later in the eighth inning when Ohtani hit a towering 430-foot home run, marking his 50th of the season and making him the first player since Alex Rodriguez in 2002 to achieve 50 home runs in consecutive seasons. However, the joy was short-lived as the bullpen faltered again. In the ninth inning, Blake Treinen, who had been a crucial part of the Dodgers’ bullpen in previous seasons, allowed a decisive three-run homer to backup catcher Rafael Marchan, sealing the Dodgers’ fate.

The Road Ahead

The loss to the Phillies not only highlighted the ongoing struggles of the Dodgers’ bullpen but also raised questions about how the team will approach the postseason. With the playoffs looming, the bullpen’s performance will be critical, especially as the Dodgers aim to defend their championship title. The team currently holds a narrow two-game lead in the NL West, and every game counts as they move closer to October.

Treinen expressed the collective frustration felt by the bullpen, stating, “Sometimes you look back and try to understand what’s going on. A lot of us have had our moments this year. Sometimes there’s no words, no reasons to describe it. I know it’s frustrating to the fans. I mean, I can promise you from the bottom of my heart we’re trying our darnedest every single night.”

Roberts acknowledged the importance of Ohtani in the team’s strategy moving forward but emphasized the need for a cautious approach regarding his usage. “This is a different situation. He’s two players in one,” Roberts said. “So for me to do something and deviate, and if something happens, then we lose two players. We haven’t done it all year, so I’m not going to do it tonight.”

Conclusion

As the Dodgers prepare for the postseason, the performance of their bullpen remains a significant concern. Ohtani’s historic achievement and remarkable pitching display serve as a silver lining, but the team’s success will ultimately depend on their ability to support each other on the field. With the playoffs fast approaching, the Dodgers must address their bullpen’s inconsistencies to make a deep run in October.

Key Facts

– Shohei Ohtani pitched five hitless innings against the Philadelphia Phillies.
– Ohtani became the first player in MLB history to hit 50 home runs and strike out 50 batters in a season.
– The Dodgers lost to the Phillies 9-6, marking another disappointing outing for their bullpen.
– Ohtani hit a 430-foot home run in the eighth inning, tying the game temporarily.
– The Dodgers currently hold a two-game lead in the NL West as they approach the postseason.

Source: www.espn.com