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MLB
Shohei Ohtaniâs struggles are raising major questions
TL;DR
Shohei Ohtani is experiencing one of the worst offensive stretches of his MLB career, hitting just .111 with no home runs since April 27th. This has raised serious questions about his ability to excel as both a hitter and pitcher.
Key points
- Shohei Ohtani is hitting just .111.
- He has not hit a home run since April 27th.
- Concerns are growing about his dual-role performance.
- This is one of the worst offensive stretches of his career.
Shohei OhtaniLos Angeles DodgersMLB
Shohei Ohtani is still one of the most talented players MLB has ever seen. But right now? Something looks off. And for the first time in a while, people around the Los Angeles Dodgers are beginning to ask serious questions about whether Ohtani can truly dominate as both a hitter and pitcher at the same time. As of mid-May 2026, Ohtani is in the middle of one of the worst offensive stretches of his MLB career.
The numbers are ugly: Hitting just .111 over his recent stretch with no home runs since April 27th. For a player who normally changes games with one swing, the lack of power is especially alarming.
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The Underlying Numbers Are Concerning
This isnât just bad luck either. There are real signs that something is off mechanically. Reports indicate that his bat speed has dropped from 76.3 mph to 74.8 mph, and his swing angle has changed.
Instead of driving baseballs with authority, Ohtani suddenly looks hesitant and out of sync at the plate. Heâs producing more weak fly balls, grounders, and pop-ups. For almost any other player in MLB, this would be considered a slump in a long season, but when weâre talking about one of the all-time greats, it is much more alarming.
Dave Roberts Thinks Itâs Mental
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has suggested the issues may be more mental than physical. According to Roberts, Ohtani appears:
- Over-anxious
- Pressing at the plate
- Potentially mentally fatigued
The Dodgers have denied that physical exhaustion is the issue, but itâs hard not to wonder whether the demands of returning to full two-way duties are playing a role.
Q&A
What is Shohei Ohtani's current batting average?
Shohei Ohtani is currently hitting .111 during one of the worst offensive stretches of his career.
When was the last time Ohtani hit a home run?
Shohei Ohtani has not hit a home run since April 27th.
Why are people questioning Ohtani's performance?
Concerns have arisen about Ohtani's ability to dominate as both a hitter and pitcher due to his recent struggles at the plate.
How does Ohtani's current performance compare to his usual standards?
Ohtani's current performance is alarming as he typically changes games with his power, making his lack of offensive production particularly concerning.
