Monday, May 4, 2026

Copyrighted by Sarah Morris, 2026

Shohei Ohtani was named the National League Pitcher of the Month on Monday.

Ohtani has made five starts since the season began. He pitched six innings in all five starts and has a 0.60 ERA.  He has 34 strikeouts compared to 9 walks.

After two right elbow surgeries, Ohtani has been using his full repertoire to baffle opposing hitters. He has been working to the corners of the strike zone. His velocity has amazed everyone, but he knows how to pace himself throughout his outings. He is being a pitcher instead of a thrower.

Before the season started, Ohtani stated he would like to become the first Japanese-born pitcher to win the Cy Young Award. He is on his way.

Unlike other pitchers, Ohtani is expected to be an offensive force in the Dodger lineup.

People have been worried about his offensive performance this year because it has decreased from years past. “Is he focusing on pitching too much?”

Ohtani is a solid left-handed hitter going through a slump. He has been walking more than in the past two years. The Dodgers haven’t found the hitter who can protect him in the second hole yet. After two seasons of more than fifty home runs, the opposing pitchers are understandably cautious with Ohtani.

However, Ohtani is giving the Dodgers what they need the most–a quality starting pitcher when he takes the mound.