Shohei Ohtani Aims for Triple Crown Amid Dodgers’ Victory Over Rockies

Ohtani’s Pursuit for Batting Supremacy

Saturday night’s MLB showdown was lit up by Shohei Ohtani, whose two hits elevated his average to .310, putting him in the running for the National League’s first Triple Crown since 1937. The Los Angeles Dodgers, bound for the playoffs, trounced the Colorado Rockies 13-2, with Ohtani’s performance playing a crucial role.

The Japanese sensation, who leads the NL with 54 home runs and 130 RBIs, is just four points shy of Luis Arraez, the current batting leader sitting at .314. Despite Arraez taking a break, Ohtani’s chances of surpassing him remain uncertain, as manager Dave Roberts commented, “It’s very unlikely but I would expect Arraez to play tomorrow. We’ll see if Shohei can throw out another big day.”

Ohtani’s Historic Season and LA’s Power Hitting

In a remarkable achievement, Ohtani stole his 58th base, making him the first 50-50 player in the history of the MLB. The Dodgers’ 18-hit game was further bolstered by three-run homers from both Teoscar Hernández and Kike Hernández. The Dodgers’ explosive offense has managed to score at least 11 runs in consecutive games for the first time since their Texas clash last year.

Teoscar Hernández, sitting on 99 RBIs, is optimistic about reaching the milestone on Sunday, alongside Ohtani. “Hopefully he can get six hits like in Miami so he can at least compete and battle for the batting title and a Triple Crown,” Hernández said.

Yoshinobu Yamamato’s Winning Return and Dodgers’ Dominance

Yoshinobu Yamamato, in his fourth start after a three-month hiatus due to a rotator cuff strain, allowed only two runs and four hits over five innings while striking out six. This marked his first victory since overcoming the Rockies on June 1st.

The Dodgers (97-64) are in a commanding position, having clinched the majors’ best record and home-field advantage throughout the postseason. Their success was cemented when Philadelphia fell to Washington the same day.

Rockies’ Struggle and Blackmon’s Retirement

The Colorado Rockies (61-100) faced their second consecutive season reaching a century in losses, with Ezequiel Tovar hitting his team-leading 26th home. Manager Bud Black commented, “It is bothersome, whether it’s loss No. 1, loss No. 50, you don’t like them.”

Charlie Blackmon, who will retire Sunday after 14 years in the majors, all with the Rockies, scored a run in a 1 for 4 performance.

Upcoming Game and Injury Updates

The Dodgers’ Kevin Kiermaier dislocated his left ring finger in a slide to second base, while Freddie Freeman is recovering from a sprained right ankle sustained during the NL West Division clincher. Over at the Rockies, Brenton Doyle sat out due to right knee tendinitis.

Next up, Dodgers’ RHP Landon Knack (2-5, 3.74) will face Rockies’ RHP Ryan Feltner (3-10, 4.66) in Sunday’s regular-season finale.