Shohei Ohtani, a star for the Los Angeles Dodgers, made a critical baserunning mistake during the team’s close 5-4 loss to the Toronto Blue Jays on Sunday. In the bottom of the sixth inning with two outs, Ohtani was caught stealing third base after successfully taking second earlier in the inning, ending a potential scoring opportunity. This error occurred as World Series MVP Freddie Freeman was at bat, deepening the impact of the mistake on the Dodgers’ rally chances.

The Significance of the Third Base Out in Baseball Strategy

In baseball, it is a well-known guideline to avoid making the final out of an inning at third base, as it can extinguish a promising rally with two outs. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts explicitly acknowledged this principle while addressing Ohtani’s decision after the game. Roberts described the baserunning move as “not a good baseball play,” signaling his disappointment in the timing and aggressiveness of the attempt to steal third.

Ohtani’s Overall Performance Despite the Error

While Ohtani’s baserunning was a costly error, his offensive contribution remained strong. He hit his 41st home run of the season during the game, tying for the National League lead. Additionally, he recorded another hit and drew two walks, showing that his overall impact was substantial even if the baserunning mistake stood out.

Roberts Expresses Frustration Over Missed Opportunities

Roberts’s criticism of Ohtani’s baserunning reflected broader frustrations with the Dodgers’ inability to capitalize on scoring chances. The team left 16 runners stranded and managed just one hit in ten at-bats with runners in scoring position. Furthermore, the bullpen faltered when Blake Treinen allowed back-to-back home runs to Vladimir Guerrero Jr. and Addison Barger in the eighth inning, which swung the lead to Toronto.

This is frustrating because I just felt there’s no way we should lose this game today,

Roberts said.

We had them on the ropes numerous times. And for us not to win is so frustrating.

—Dave Roberts, Dodgers Manager

Looking Ahead: Key Games on the Dodgers’ Schedule

After this defeat, the Dodgers hold a slim two-game lead in the NL West division. Their upcoming matchups include a game against the Los Angeles Angels followed by a crucial series against the surging San Diego Padres. How the Dodgers respond after this disappointing loss, particularly in terms of baserunning discipline and timely hitting, will be vital for maintaining their divisional lead.