Ohtani Sets New Record with Four Intentional Walks in World Series Game

TORONTO, Canada — Shohei Ohtani‘s incredible performance in Game 3 of the World Series has left a lasting mark on baseball history, as he was intentionally walked four times, setting a new postseason record. This unprecedented strategy used by the Toronto Blue Jays showcased Ohtani’s dominance.

In a gripping 18-inning match at Dodger Stadium, Ohtani proved why he is considered the best player in the game. He reached base a record nine times, hitting two home runs and two doubles before the Blue Jays opted to walk him intentionally four times starting in the ninth inning. This marked the first time any player in a postseason game had received four intentional walks.

Blue Jays manager John Schneider explained his decision to walk Ohtani, emphasizing that taking the bat out of his hands was the only option after his explosive hitting in the earlier innings. “You just take the bat out of his hands,” Schneider stated. “He had a great game, he’s a great player. Sometimes you just can’t beat him.”

For Ohtani, the walks highlighted his significant impact on the game. His two home runs earlier in the game brought his postseason total to seven. Ohtani’s incredible performance juxtaposed the struggles of his teammates, as his fellow hitters Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman had difficulty capitalizing on the opportunities presented.

Freeman commented on the situation, stating, “If that’s taking Shohei out, then that’s what they’ve got to do. But it means he’s on base, so that’s also good for the Dodgers.” Ohtani’s ability to draw walks impacted the lineup dynamics, forcing a strategic reevaluation by the Blue Jays.

Despite the walks, the strategy did not pay off until it was too late. In the 18th inning, after batting around the lineup, Freeman hit a walk-off home run, emphasizing that the game would not have lasted as long had they not walked Ohtani.

Schneider expressed his own frustration with the situation, noting, “You walk him because sometimes, you just can’t beat him.” However, he also humorously suggested changes to the rules around intentional walks in the future.

Ohtani’s record-setting performance is not just a milestone in his career but also shifts how baseball strategies are constructed around powerful hitters. The Blue Jays now face pressure to alter their approach in the upcoming games, putting the focus squarely on the challenge of pitching to Ohtani.