Why did Shohei Ohtani’s performance stand out?
On July 21, 2025, Shohei Ohtani put on an extraordinary two-way performance against the Twins. Byron Buxton sent the ball over the fence of Target Field with the very first pitch. In turn, Ohtani responded with the same by smashing his 441-foot two-run homer.
Giving the pitcher-for-hitter the rare distinction of being either the first pitcher since 1979 to surrender a first-inning HR and hit one himself. That was the 35th of Ohtani’s home runs in the season and one more for his chances of being named this season’s Most Valuable Player. Now, for this rarity of a feat, a Dodgers chapter has been added to his extremely illustrious career.
Shohei Ohtani delivers historic two-way show as Dodgers topple Twins on July 21, 2025.
How did the Dodgers break their losing streak?
The Dodgers entered this matchup versus Minnesota having dropped three straight games. Having played five innings to bat against Minnesota, the Dodgers bounced back with a 5–2 victory in front of 46,000 fans at Dodger Stadium.
Smith provided a spark for the comeback charge with a solo home run and another one just like it. Andrew Pages struck a home run late in the game to give the Dodgers early control.
The team was much more intent and precise in execution than we had seen in previous matches. With the victory, Los Angeles improved their positioning in the 2025 MLB standings.
What did Ohtani say about his pitching struggles?
Ohtani admitted that he made some mistakes with pitching despite getting the win. He said through the translator, “I made some mistakes over the plate.”
Ohtani was capped at 46 pitches over just three innings. Also gave up four hits, struck out three batters, and walked one.
His ERA stands at 1.50, going into his sixth appearance of this season. Dodgers’ manager Dave Roberts called it a “step forward” in Ohtani’s ramp-up.
Ohtani admits to pitching mistakes despite the Dodgers’ win.
Ohtani continues to deliver on both sides
Shohei Ohtani is taking things steadily with his pitching post-recovery. Such a big home run practically endorses Ohtani as being among the better hitters in the league.
He leads the league with 35 home runs this season. Even without pitching much, he remains a high-impact player for the Dodgers.
Ohtani has blasted five first-inning home runs this year. That number is the most in the Major Leagues in the early part of 2025.
Defence and bullpen sealed the late innings
The Twins threatened a late ninth-inning rally. Dodgers Closer Tanner Scott had to exit due to a strain in his right forearm.
Yates went straight in, but almost immediately there were two on base. Carlos Correa almost tied the game up with a deep drive to centre.
But Outman leapt to the wall and saved it. Yates earned his third save of the season under immense pressure.
What’s next for Ohtani and the Dodgers?
Two days from now, Ohtani should be throwing four innings. Dave Roberts himself said it would be an incremental increase.
The Dodgers will now try to hold on to this momentum throughout the week. As of 22 July, they are behind in the National League West.
They are paramount in shaping the mlb standings 2025 Race. Having healthy Ohtani still means the Dodgers have legitimate designs on the postseason.
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First-Inning Drama Lifts Dodgers Over Twins
With an off-the-board shot in the top of the first inning during the game on July 21, Ohtani made history.
The Dodgers ended the three-game losing streak with a glaze that fell decidedly against the Twins, 5–2.
Timely homers by Will Smith and Andy Pages supported Ohtani. Ohtani now leads the MLB in home runs at 35 and in ERA at 1.50.
The Steelers’ bullpen just made it through a tight finish. 2025 now is focusing on climbing the mlb standings with Ohtani showing the way.
