In an MLB season brimming with standout performances, Shohei Ohtani delivered another signature moment that sparked high praise from Dave Roberts, manager of the Los Angeles Dodgers.
After belting a go-ahead three-run homer in the ninth inning of Friday’s dramatic 14–11 win over the Arizona Diamondbacks, Ohtani drew comparisons to one of baseball’s most iconic figures.
“They’re the two best players I’ve ever seen,” Manager Roberts said via ESPN, referring to Ohtani and Barry Bonds, whom he once played alongside.
But what truly sets Ohtani apart, according to Roberts, is his ability to deliver in high-pressure moments. “I played with Barry, but what Sho does in the clutch, I’ve never seen anything like it,” Roberts said, emphasizing the uniqueness of Ohtani’s impact.
Shohei Ohtani #17 of the Los Angeles Dodgers bats against the Arizona Diamondbacks during the MLB game at Chase Field on May 09, 2025 in Phoenix, Arizona. The Dodgers defeated the Diamondbacks 14-11. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
Roberts’ unique perspective
Few individuals in baseball have had such an up-close view of both players. Roberts is in his second season managing Ohtani and was a teammate of Bonds during the 2007 season with the San Francisco Giants. His playing career also included stints with the Dodgers and San Diego Padres, giving him years of firsthand experience facing Bonds during his prime in the NL West.
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Clutch power and historic versatility define Ohtani’s legacy
Statistically, Barry Bonds still holds the edge in offensive metrics, owning a career 182 OPS+, compared to Ohtani’s current 159 OPS+. However, the Japanese star’s unprecedented two-way prowess shifts the debate. While not currently pitching, Ohtani finished fourth in Cy Young voting during his 2022 campaign and remains on track to return to the mound after the All-Star Break, per Dylan Hernández of the Los Angeles Times.
Ohtani’s ninth-inning blast capped a furious six-run rally that erased an 11–8 deficit and sealed the Dodgers’ win. The reigning World Series champions have now won 10 of their last 13 games, though they hold just a one-game lead over the Padres in the division.
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During this red-hot stretch, Ohtani has been nothing short of spectacular—slashing .385/.500/.981 with six home runs, 16 extra-base hits, and five stolen bases.
