Dodgers vs. Padres: Seoul Showdown
In the second game of the MLB Seoul Series, the Dodgers and the Padres engaged in a high-scoring battle, combining for a whopping 33 hits. Despite Shohei Ohtani contributing with hits and RBIs for the second consecutive game, the Dodgers couldn’t overcome the Padres, falling 11-15. Both teams now hold one win each as they return to the United States.
Pre-game Controversy and Ohtani’s Performance
Amid the controversy surrounding the dismissal of translator Yuhei Mizuno for alleged illegal gambling and theft, Ohtani remained focused and continued to play as the designated hitter in the second spot in the lineup. Ohtani made an impact early with a hit in his first at-bat and a sacrifice fly in the second inning, tallying one hit and contributing to the scoreline. His batting average stands at .300 after these two games.
Ohtani vs. Matsui: A Memorable Duel
In the seventh inning, Ohtani faced left-handed pitcher Yuki Matsui, marking their first MLB encounter. Ohtani hit a deep fly ball off Matsui, nearly resulting in a home run and eliciting sighs from the crowd. Statistically, the 384-foot fly ball would have been a home run in 13 out of the 30 MLB stadiums.
Yamamoto’s Rough Debut
Dodgers’ starting pitcher Yamamoto struggled in his MLB debut, lasting only one inning and conceding five runs. Despite the Dodgers’ bullpen allowing 10 runs in the first five innings, the team’s offense fought back, narrowing the gap to just one run. However, they fell short as Ohtani failed to deliver a tying hit in the eighth inning, and Manny Machado’s three-run homer in the ninth sealed the victory for the Padres.
Betts’ Historic Home Run
Dodgers’ leadoff hitter Mookie Betts launched the first home run of the MLB season in the fifth inning, earning him a car sponsored by Hyundai, a well-known Korean brand. Betts had an impressive performance with four hits and six RBIs in the game. With the conclusion of the Seoul Series between the Dodgers and the Padres, both teams head back to the United States with one win and one loss each.
Ohtani’s Quick Start
Before the game, reports surfaced regarding translator Mizuno’s dismissal due to allegations of illegal gambling and theft, causing speculation and discussion worldwide. Despite the distractions, Ohtani showed his focus by delivering a hit in his first plate appearance in the opening inning, contributing to the Dodgers’ scoring efforts.
Padres’ Early Offensive Surge
The Padres wasted no time in the game, scoring five runs in the first inning. Even though Padres’ pitcher Joe Musgrove struggled, Ohtani’s hit and Freddie Freeman’s walk helped the Dodgers respond and cut into the Padres’ lead early in the game.
Consistent Lineup for Dodgers
In the second game of the season, the Dodgers maintained the same starting lineup and batting order as the first game, with Ohtani once again occupying the second spot as the designated hitter.(Lvbet)
