Ohtani Reflects on Missed Challenge in Dodgers' Narrow Defeat to Pirates

PITTSBURGH (AP) — Shohei Ohtani prefers to take a backseat to his catchers when it comes to challenging umpire calls. The Los Angeles Dodgers star believes that his primary responsibility on the mound is pitching, leaving the decision to contest a ball or strike to those behind the plate. However, this strategy may have contributed to a surprising 9-8 defeat against the Pittsburgh Pirates on Wednesday evening.

The Dodgers started the game strong, boasting a five-run lead thanks to Ryan Ward's inaugural grand slam, which had Ohtani set for his third seventh-inning appearance this season. Looking to secure his fifth consecutive victory, the two-time MVP's performance took a downturn as the game progressed.

After a single from Pirates rookie Tyler Callihan and a swinging bunt from Jake Mangum, Ohtani faced Brandon Lowe, who quickly put pressure on the pitcher by getting ahead 3-0. The home plate umpire, Felix Neon, called two of Ohtani's fastballs balls, but catcher Dalton Rushing opted not to challenge the calls, prompting Ohtani to hold off as well. Lowe capitalized on the situation, hitting a two-run double and effectively ending Ohtani's night on the mound, leading to a five-run rally from the Pirates in the eighth inning.

Ohtani, who surrendered season highs with six hits, four runs, and three earned runs, later reflected on the missed opportunity, stating, “I usually let the catchers make that determination. But looking back, I think situationally, how important it was that at-bat, I think I could have done a few challenges.”

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts acknowledged the complexities of challenge calls, agreeing that it's wise to rely on the players closest to the action. Despite the hiccup, the Dodgers entered the eighth still ahead by two runs, having won 36 out of 39 games when leading after seven innings this season. However, Callihan's three-run homer and Spencer Horwitz's two-run shot shifted the momentum, even as Ohtani managed to hit a two-run home run in the ninth to narrow the gap.

“You’re not going to face too many guys like that,” remarked Pirates manager Don Kelly about Ohtani. The loss is a stark reminder that even the best players can face unexpected challenges on the field. Following the game, Roberts announced that starter Will Smith would be placed on the 10-day injured list, increasing the likelihood that Ohtani will take on a larger role in upcoming games. “I’m always going to be prepared to play tomorrow,” Ohtani affirmed.