"It's a hole that is not easy to fill” - Shohei Ohtani reflects on Mookie Betts’ absence emphasizing Dodgers teammate's leadership qualities
The Los Angeles Dodgers suffered a body blow earlier this month after star shortstop Mookie Betts fractured his left hand. Japanese phenom Shohei Ohtani has taken up the role of the lead-off hitter in his teammate's absence.
Ohtani has been a lead-off hitter for the Dodgers for the last three games, starting with the series opener against the Colorado Rockies on Monday. His form has not been affected despite the additional pressure as the Dodgers superstar has registered a hit in all the three games he has featured in the lead-off spot.
He has a combined seven hits over the three games with six RBIs and a home run to his name. Even though Ohtani has been an able replacement at the top of the lineup, the two-time MVP feels Betts' absence is a "big hole" for the team.
"It's a hole that is not easy to fill, obviously with the leadership position he embodies. But we just have to find a way as a collective unit to cover him," Ohtani said via his translator.
Ohtani played in the lead-off spot for the Dodgers earlier in the season when Mookie Betts was rested for a game against the Cincinnati Reds. Moreover, the three-time All-Star has been accustomed to the role since his Los Angeles Angels days.
Dodgers fail to capitalize on Shohei Ohtani's returns
The Dodgers will be without Mookie Betts' service for about six to eight weeks, as per manager Dave Roberts. While Shohei Ohtani is filling in for his injured teammate at the top of the lineup, Miguel Rojas and Kike Hernandez have been taking turns for the team in the shortstop role.
During Ohtani's most recent outing in the lead-off spot on Wednesday, the Japanese superstar helped his team get back on level terms after trailing 3-0 in the first inning. His bases-clearing double in the second inning helped the team to three runs, while Freddie Freeman followed up with an RBI single to turn around the score.
Despite Shohei Ohtani's output, the team suffered a frustrating 7-6 defeat as the Dodgers bullpen failed to preserve the team's lead to hand the Rockies a lifeline in the four-game series.
The Dodgers were leading 2-0 in the series heading into Wednesday's game but a late fightback from the Rockies means that the teams will lock horns on Thursday with the series on the line.