"We really feel the depth of our lineup and it really showed tonight" - Shohei Ohtani optimistic after Dodgers' strong showing vs BrewersÂ
The Los Angeles Dodgers won their fourth consecutive game and their first on a seven-game road stretch against the Milwaukee Brewers on Monday. Superstar Shohei Ohtani hit a homer in a game that saw Mookie Betts returning to the lineup and a strong outing from veteran pitcher Clayton Kershaw, solidifying the Dodgers' depth charts.
Mookie Betts was activated from the Injury List earlier in the day after completing his rehab for a fractured left hand, an injury he sustained months back. In just his second at-bat, Betts hit a two-run home run to left field. Later in the game, he even recorded an RBI single, plating Ohtani.
Clayton Kershaw was hot on the mound earning his first win of the season for his 5.2 innings of 1-run ball. In 83 pitches he gave up only three hits and two walks while striking out six batters. He lowered his season ERA to 3.50 as a result.
The pair of veterans were ably supported by Dodgers leadoff hitter who continued his quest for a 40-40 season. Ohtani hit a 424-foot bomb to left-center field in the top of the fifth inning before stealing second base after a walk two innings later. The generational star later commented on the team's outing after the game, as he was satisfied with how well the organization has used its depth:
"Not just me but as a team, I think we really felt depth of our lineup and it really showed tonight in how we played," Ohtani said through his interpreter Will Ireton.
Shohei Ohtani stays in leadoff position despite Mookie Betts return
Ever since Mookie Betts got injured in June, Ohtani took over the leadoff duties. In 179 at-bats so far, he has hit 37 RBIs and 16 home runs at a .274 average and 1.020 OPS. The Dodgers may look to continue with Ohtani ahead of Betts for some time.
As per manager Dave Roberts, Betts will be eased back into the lineup. Throughout the season, he hit in the leadoff position and played in the diamond mostly at shortstop. Upon his return, he was shifted to right field and batted after "The Sho".
The Dodgers continue to lead the NL West standings with a 70-49 record so far and will try to take a 2-0 lead in their four-game series with the Brewers in the second game at American Family Field on Tuesday.