Dodgers' Mookie Betts Responds to Teams Intentionally Walking Shohei Ohtani

Los Angeles Dodgers' star Mookie Betts has expressed understanding and readiness regarding opposing teams' strategy of intentionally walking two-way player Shohei Ohtani to face him instead. Ohtani, who led the National League with 20 intentional walks during the regular season, was intentionally walked in the NL Wild Card series against the Cincinnati Reds, a move that backfired as Betts capitalized with key hits including a crucial double that helped extend the Dodgers' lead. Betts, who has been in excellent form with a strong postseason batting average and clutch performances, acknowledged that he expects this strategy to continue, especially as the Dodgers prepare to face the Philadelphia Phillies in the National League Division Series. Reds manager Terry Francona advised against intentionally walking Ohtani, citing the dangers of then facing hitters like Betts or Freddie Freeman, noting that walking powerful hitters can often lead to more trouble. Statistical analysis supports Francona's caution, showing that intentional walks can increase the expected number of runs for the opposing team in such situations. Overall, while teams may seek to neutralize Ohtani's power, Betts remains a formidable threat at the plate, ready to punish pitchers who opt for this approach.