Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Mookie Betts said a hitting slump is affecting teammate Shohei Ohtani [1].
The remarks highlight a tension between Ohtani's historical success and his current production. As a primary offensive engine for the Dodgers, any decline in Ohtani's hitting numbers impacts the team's overall scoring potential and strategic approach in Major League Baseball [2].
Betts and other teammates have discussed Ohtani's recent performance to address concerns regarding his declining hitting numbers [2]. This internal and public dialogue comes as observers note a discrepancy between Ohtani's current form and his previous achievements [3].
Despite the recent struggle, Ohtani holds a significant place in the league's hierarchy. He was named the 2025 National League MVP [1]. This accolade underscores his capability to dominate the game, even as current statistics suggest a period of instability [1], [2].
The conversation among the Dodgers players reflects the high expectations placed on Ohtani. Because he is a top performer, a dip in production is more visible than it would be for a standard roster player [2].
Betts said Ohtani continues to have an impact on the team regardless of the current slump [3]. The Dodgers remain focused on how Ohtani's presence influences the game, even when his individual numbers are down [2].
“Shohei Ohtani was named the 2025 National League MVP.”
The public acknowledgment of a slump by a teammate like Betts suggests that the Dodgers are actively managing the psychological and tactical fallout of Ohtani's dip in production. By contrasting his 2025 MVP status with current struggles, the team is attempting to frame the slump as a temporary deviation for a generational talent rather than a permanent decline in skill.
