Dodgers Demolish Yankees in 18-2 Blowout, Ohtani Nearly Naps

LOS ANGELES, California — The Los Angeles Dodgers delivered a staggering performance against the New York Yankees on Saturday night, winning 18-2 in a dominating display. The game quickly got out of hand, with the Dodgers scoring 10 runs during the first two innings, forcing the Yankees into a desperate situation early on.

Fans were surprised when even superstar Shohei Ohtani appeared to fight off sleep in the dugout during the blowout. Footage captured him resting his head with his eyes closed, momentarily losing focus amid the Dodgers’ offensive onslaught.

Ohtani, who recently welcomed a baby daughter with his wife, Mamiko Tanaka, may have had extra reasons to feel tired. Since the birth on April 19, new parenthood can be exhausting, and Ohtani may not have had much rest as he juggles baseball and family life.

Despite his apparent fatigue, Ohtani managed to contribute with two hits and two runs during the game, highlighting that while he was not the star of the night, he still played a role in the comprehensive team effort displayed by the Dodgers.

This victory follows the Dodgers’ previous win against the Yankees, where they edged out New York 8-5 in the first game of the series. Now, they prepare to close the series with another game on Sunday Night Baseball.

The Dodgers’ success this season continues without major contributions from Ohtani on the mound. He is recovering from Tommy John surgery and has not pitched since September 2023. He has begun throwing bullpen sessions and even faced live batters recently, indicating that his return to pitching may be on the horizon.

Ohtani’s contract with the Dodgers, valued at $700 million, reflects the team’s commitment to him as a two-way player. His hitting skills continue to shine, as he has already hit 22 home runs this season with an OPS of 1.062.

As the Dodgers enjoy their dominant performance and an impressive 36-22 record while leading the NL West, they and the fans will be eager to see what Ohtani can bring to the mound when he fully recovers. With only a day left in the series against the Yankees, attention will turn to the final matchup and whether the Dodgers can sweep the Yankees at home.