WASHINGTON–Dave Roberts believes Shohei Ohtani might be even better with more plate discipline when runners are in scoring position.
The Los Angeles Dodgers manager met the two-time American League MVP about a week ago to talk about how Ohtani could improve his strike zone management.
“I thought he was expanding a little bit more than he needed to,” Roberts said Tuesday. “So, I just wanted to have a conversation with him.”
On Sunday, Ohtani smashed his 176th home run, passing Hideki Matsui for the most in Major League Baseball among Japanese-born players. Ohtani was the major league leader in batting average (.368), hits (35), doubles (11) and total bases (63) heading into Tuesday night’s game in Washington.
“Any time he swings the bat he can change the game, and now being even more disciplined in the strike zone just makes him more scary,” Mr. Roberts said.
In December, Ohtani left the Los Angeles Angels for the Dodgers, signing a record $700 million, 10-year contract. The two-way star underwent elbow surgery last September and will not pitch this season.
Roberts has noticed Ohtani settling in with his new teammates and coaches.
“He is doing a great job with everyone,” Roberts remarked. “The hitting instructors are developing a really excellent rapport and trust. I see him more now. Before, you only saw him when he entered the batter’s box. So he’s around a lot more, which is also a wonderful thing.
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