Thereâs reason for optimism surrounding the Los Angeles Dodgers this season.
Off to a solid 15â7 start, Dave Robertsâ squad is set to wrap up their series against the Texas Rangers this Sunday. However, the team received some unwelcome news involving superstar Shohei Ohtani.
With the series tied 1â1, Sunday marks the final meeting between these teams, at least for now. The Rangers impressed in their last outing, and with the series on the line, theyâre preparing to face a Dodgers team that will look a bit different this time around.
After missing a few games, Ohtani is expected to return to the lineup.
He had been away following the birth of his first child. Ohtani last appeared on April 16, when the Dodgers edged out the Colorado Rockies in a narrow 8â7 victory.
His return could be a turning point. Manager Dave Roberts is hopeful Ohtaniâs presence, and the emotional boost of becoming a father, will help spark a win. The Japanese star will be looking to build on his impressive numbers in the early part of the regular season.
Shohei Ohtani #17 of the Los Angeles Dodgers celebrates hitting a double in the top of the ninth inning during the MLB Tokyo Series game against Chicago Cubs at Tokyo Dome on March 18, 2025 in Tokyo, Japan.
Why Ohtaniâs comeback spells trouble for the Rangers
Itâs not just about what Ohtani brings to the field when heâs healthy, his return is particularly concerning for the Rangers. Since his arrival in Major League Baseball, Ohtani has consistently posted strong numbers against Texas, making him a serious threat to the Rangersâ championship hopes this season.
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According to StatMuse, prior to the 2025 season, Ohtani played 86 games against the Rangers, batting .278 with 21 home runs and 53 RBIs. Those stats underscore just how dangerous he can be whenever he steps up to the plate against Texas.
Ohtani welcomes a baby girl
During a brief break to spend time with his growing family, Ohtani took to Instagram to share a touching update: the birth of his daughter. âI am so grateful to my loving wife who gave birth to our healthy, beautiful daughter. To my daughter, thank you for making us very nervous yet super anxious parents,â Ohtani wrote.
