Shohei Ohtani Struggles in Two-Way World Series Debut for Dodgers

The Los Angeles Dodgers’ Game 4 loss to the Toronto Blue Jays in the World Series felt like a gut punch after Shohei Ohtani’s heroics just the night before. After a history-making Game 3, Ohtani came back down to earth, giving up four runs over six innings in a 6–2 defeat that tied the series at two games each.

This game marked his first postseason home run allowed—a two-run shot by Vladimir Guerrero Jr.—and snapped his streak of reaching base 11 times in a row. The Dodgers flashed moments of brilliance, but couldn’t get the offense going, leaving them with some tough questions before Game 5.

Ohtani’s Performance: From Historic to Human

Game 3 made Ohtani look like a World Series legend in the making. Game 4, though, had a different vibe.

He went six innings, allowing six hits, four earned runs, six strikeouts, and one walk.

The Turning Point: Guerrero Jr.’s Home Run

The game’s mood changed in the third inning. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. sent a two-run homer—Ohtani’s first allowed this postseason—deep into the stands.

Blue Jays manager John Schneider called it a “huge swing,” and it’s hard to disagree. From that moment, Toronto grabbed the psychological edge.

Will Smith, behind the plate, said Ohtani’s command still looked sharp. But that one swing put the Dodgers in a position where they had to play catch-up.

Fatigue Factor and Mental Preparation

Ohtani admitted that his marathon effort in Game 3 might’ve left some fatigue, even if he felt physically ready for Game 4. He’s known for pitching deep, and he sounded disappointed about not making it through seven innings.

Teammate Perspectives

Will Smith praised Ohtani’s attention to detail and competitive edge, saying he didn’t see any signs of exhaustion. Mookie Betts summed it up: Ohtani gave them chances, but the offense didn’t come through.

Dodgers Offense Falls Short

The Dodgers managed six hits, but they just couldn’t cash in. Missed chances in big moments kept them from mounting a real comeback against Toronto’s arms.

Offensive Struggles Under Pressure

Baseball’s about more than pitching. The Dodgers just didn’t get the timely hits in Game 4. Was it poor situational hitting? Maybe Toronto’s defense? Either way, Los Angeles needs to adjust for Game 5.

Series Implications

With the series tied at 2–2, tension’s definitely rising. Game 5 is huge—almost feels like it could tip the whole thing. Ohtani’s struggles in Game 4 don’t erase his earlier heroics, but they show that even the best can stumble under October’s pressure.

Key Takeaways for the Dodgers

• Capitalize on scoring chances—missed opportunities can decide championships.
• Contain power hitters—can’t let guys like Guerrero Jr. change the game with one swing.
• Maintain momentum—energy and focus matter, especially back-to-back.

Looking Ahead

The Dodgers know Ohtani can deliver greatness, but they need more guys to step up. Balancing strong pitching with steady offense might be what decides the next matchup against the Blue Jays.

Final Thoughts

Game 4 showed that the World Series tests resilience just as much as talent. Shohei Ohtani might be the face of this Dodgers run, but baseball’s ultimate prize needs a real team effort.

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Here is the source article for this story: Shohei Ohtani has an off night in his two-way World Series debut