Dodgers Slump Sees Them Fall in ESPN Power Rankings

The Los Angeles Dodgers are struggling for runs as of late, and their lack of positive results over the past few weeks finally caused them to drop from first place in ESPN’s Power Rankings.

LA’s win Wednesday evening put an end to a four-game loss streak during which the Dodgers lost by four or more runs in each game, something which hasn’t happened to the Dodgers since 1936. The Dodgers are currently 5-7 in the month of May, and have lost their spot atop the NL West—0.5 games behind the Padres.

“Shohei Ohtani wasn’t in the lineup again for his start day Wednesday, and he wasn’t expected to be in it on Thursday, either, the first time he has been out of the lineup on back-to-back days — minus stints on the injured and paternity lists — since the universal designated hitter was implemented in 2022,” ESPN’s Alden Gonzalez wrote. “There’s a reason. Before potentially breaking out with an encouraging performance Tuesday night, Ohtani was 4-for-36 with zero home runs in his first 10 games in May. In that stretch, the Dodgers scored three runs or less on seven occasions.”

May 6, 2026; Houston, Texas, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter Shohei Ohtani (17) walks to the dugout after striking out against the during the first inning at Daikin Park. Mandatory Credit: Erik Williams-Imagn Images