Shohei Ohtani’s slump is killing his MVP chances –– and the Dodgers’ offense

Shohei Ohtani, the Los Angeles Dodgers’ two-way superstar, is facing mounting challenges that threaten both his individual accolades and his team's offensive effectiveness. After a period marked by injuries and diminished performance at the plate, the 32-year-old has seen his National League MVP prospects fade, while the Dodgers’ lineup struggles to find its rhythm without his consistent production.

Ohtani’s recent games have been characterized by a notable decline in hitting, with his batting average dipping to .280—the lowest since late May. Over his last 10 contests, he has managed only five hits in 40 at-bats, underscoring a significant slump that has impeded the Dodgers' offensive momentum. Despite maintaining a still-respectable .908 OPS, this figure is the weakest he has posted since 2022 and now trails behind notable MVP contender Pete Crow-Armstrong.

The comparison between Ohtani and Crow-Armstrong highlights the shifting dynamic in the MVP race. Crow-Armstrong, who has recently delivered multiple home runs in back-to-back games, boasts a higher OPS of .954 and superior power numbers, including 38 home runs and 91 RBIs so far this season. Moreover, advanced metrics such as wins-above-replacement (WAR) place Crow-Armstrong at 9.3 compared to Ohtani’s 6.8, reflecting the center fielder’s comprehensive impact on the game, particularly with his elite defensive contributions.

Injuries have compounded Ohtani’s struggles. Persistent knee and biceps issues have disrupted his pitching schedule, with plans for his return to the mound being postponed indefinitely. This uncertainty raises questions about whether he will pitch again this season. The Dodgers’ management is prioritizing his offensive recovery, aware that his batting remains central to their success irrespective of his pitching status.

Manager Dave Roberts has acknowledged the need to recalibrate Ohtani’s approach at the plate. Analysis points to frequent poor pitch selection and an inconsistent swing that has resulted in hard-hit balls failing to clear the infield. Roberts indicated that Ohtani’s struggles stem more from hitting mechanics and strategy than from fatigue caused by his pitching duties, although the balance between pitching preparations and batting practice continues to be a concern.

The dual demands of Ohtani’s two-way role limit the time he can dedicate to refining his hitting. Each pitching session or bullpen workout reduces his opportunities for batting practice, a trade-off that may be contributing to his prolonged slump. The Dodgers plan to reevaluate his workload upon returning to Los Angeles, aiming to find an equilibrium that optimizes his overall contribution to the team.

Physically and mentally, Ohtani is not yet at full strength. The team’s medical staff and coaching personnel are working to place him in a better condition, both for his health and performance. Despite these setbacks, Roberts remains optimistic about restoring his star player’s form, emphasizing that revitalizing Ohtani’s offense will be pivotal for the Dodgers' late-season push.

Ohtani’s situation underscores the broader challenges faced by athletes managing dual roles at an elite level, especially amid the rigors of a demanding season. His status as a four-time MVP winner once positioned him as a clear frontrunner for the award again, but the current trajectory suggests a more contested race, with emerging talents like Crow-Armstrong capturing greater momentum.

For the Dodgers, the focus remains clear: stabilizing their lineup by restoring Ohtani’s offensive output. His ability to contribute consistently at the plate is seen as essential, regardless of his availability on the mound. As the team navigates the remainder of the season, Ohtani’s recovery and adjustment will be closely watched, holding significant implications for both his personal achievements and the Dodgers’ postseason ambitions.