Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts, who had the opportunity to play alongside Barry Bonds, has seen many great players throughout his career. However, Roberts has made a striking comparison between two of the best players he’s witnessed: Barry Bonds and Shohei Ohtani.
Roberts believes that Ohtani’s ability to perform in clutch moments surpasses what he saw from Bonds during his playing days. Ohtani’s legendary moments continue to grow, with his performance against the Arizona Diamondbacks on Friday night further cementing his status as one of the game’s all-time greats.
Ohtani’s Clutch Three-Run Homer Seals Dodgers’ Dramatic 14-11 Comeback Victory Over Arizona
The Dodgers’ 14-11 victory over the Arizona Diamondbacks was one of the most thrilling games of the season. The contest featured a combination of explosive offense, wild lead changes, and late-game drama, with both teams combining for 25 runs, 26 hits, and seven home runs.
Arizona held the lead multiple times, including a three-run advantage, but Los Angeles managed to claw its way back, making for a chaotic and emotional night. In the end, it was Ohtani’s heroics that sealed the Dodgers’ victory.
Shohei Ohtani (MLB)Shohei Ohtani added to his growing legend with an unforgettable performance in the ninth inning. After the Dodgers tied the game 11-11, Ohtani stepped up to the plate with runners on first and second. Facing pitcher Ryan Thompson, Ohtani worked the count to 1-2 before crushing a breaking ball into the seats in right field for a three-run home run.
The home run was Ohtani’s 12th of the season, and his celebration mirrored that of Arizona’s Lourdes Gurriel Jr. earlier in the game. Ohtani’s clutch hit helped the Dodgers cap off a dramatic comeback, and Roberts lauded his ability to deliver in high-pressure situations.
Back-and-forth Offense Leads to Ohtani’s Game-Winning Home Run in Ninth-Inning Comeback
The game was a back-and-forth offensive showcase, with both teams hitting multiple home runs and capitalizing on pitching mistakes. Ohtani set the tone early, hitting a 423-foot double in the first inning that showcased his power. Despite his early contributions, the Dodgers went quiet for several innings, and Arizona took advantage.
Ketel Marte hit two solo homers for the Diamondbacks, and Eugenio Suarez added a two-run shot in the first inning. Arizona’s offense continued to flourish, with a grand slam from Gurriel and a series of homers that put them ahead 11-8 by the eighth inning.
The Dodgers’ comeback began in the ninth inning when Freddie Freeman led off with a single, followed by a series of timely hits from Andy Pages, Enrique Hernandez, and Max Muncy, all of whom contributed to tying the game at 11.
With Ohtani at the plate, the stage was set for a dramatic moment. As usual, Ohtani delivered, providing the decisive blow with his three-run homer. His ability to rise to the occasion in clutch moments continues to set him apart, with his teammates and manager alike praising his consistency and unflappable nature in high-stress situations.
