Los Angeles Angels manager Ron Washington’s decision to intentionally walk Shohei Ohtani to face Mookie Betts in extra innings on Tuesday night did not go according to plan. Ohtani was making his return to Anaheim in the game and fans were not happy to see the Dodgers star get intentionally walked. In a 3-2 game and a runner already on second base, Washington clearly wanted to take his chances with Betts as opposed to Ohtani. Here was the result, video via FOX Sports: MLB:
Walking Ohtani because “he’d rather face Mookie Betts” 😅
🎥: @SportsNetLApic.twitter.com/PyaQd8MX5P
— FOX Sports: MLB (@MLBONFOX) September 4, 2024
Betts’ three-run home run made the score 6-2 and the Dodgers never looked back, ultimately earning a 6-2 victory. So what did Betts think of the Angels’ decision to walk Ohtani in that situation?
“You know, they walked Sho to get to me, and I was just like, alright,” Betts said after the game, via SportsNet LA. “Fortunately it went well.”
It should be remembered that Ohtani is on the verge of a 50-50 season. He has taken a step forward offensively in 2024. Perhaps not pitching this year has led to Ohtani’s massive offensive campaign. Not wanting to pitch to him is understandable.
Tuesday’s situation is the perfect example of why the Dodgers lineup is so lethal, though. Betts is one of the best players in the game. One could argue that only Ohtani and Aaron Judge may be walked to face a superstar like Mookie Betts. And the decision did not pay off for the Angels on Tuesday.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts reacts to Mookie Betts’ heroics vs. Angels
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Dave Roberts is used to seeing Betts come up clutch in the big moments.
“I certainly like the result,” Roberts said of Betts’ three-run home run, via SportsNet LA. “Mookie with a huge hit, obviously as an opposing manager there’s no right or wrong decision. It’s an adage, pick your poison. That’s the great thing about having great players. From my chair, there’s always a good option. Mookie came up big tonight.
The Dodgers and Angels will go head-to-head once again in Anaheim on Wednesday night.
Ron Washington’s decision to intentionally walk Shohei Ohtani in favor of facing Mookie Betts definitely backfired for the Angels. Betts made them pay with a three-run home run that ultimately sealed the victory for the Dodgers.Despite Ohtani’s incredible offensive season, it’s clear that teams are still hesitant to pitch to him. And with good reason, as he has been a force to be reckoned with at the plate in 2024.The decision to walk Ohtani to get to Betts speaks volumes about the respect both players command in the league. Only a handful of superstars like Ohtani and Aaron Judge would warrant such a move to face a player of Betts’ caliber.Dodgers manager Dave Roberts was not surprised by Betts’ heroics, as he has seen him deliver in clutch moments before. Betts’ home run was a testament to his skill and ability to come through when it matters most.It’s always a tough decision for managers when facing a lineup as potent as the Dodgers. There are no easy choices when it comes to who to pitch to, as every player in their lineup poses a threat.The Angels will have another shot at redemption against the Dodgers in the upcoming game. It will be interesting to see how both teams adjust their strategies in the next matchup. Stay tuned for more updates and analysis on this exciting rivalry.
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Source: CNN
