Ohtani's 'Regrettable' Seventh Inning Leads Dodgers to World Series Game 4 Loss

Shohei Ohtani, the Los Angeles Dodgers' two-way star, struggled in Game 4 of the 2025 World Series, going hitless at the plate and taking the loss on the mound during the Dodgers' 6-2 defeat to the Toronto Blue Jays. After a historic Game 3 where he reached base nine times and excelled both as a hitter and pitcher, Ohtani was able to pitch six innings in Game 4, striking out six and allowing four earned runs, including a two-run homer on a pitch he called "regrettable." Despite intentions to pitch seven innings, he was pulled early in the seventh after allowing hits that sparked a four-run inning for Toronto, which extended their lead decisively. Ohtani had received IV fluids for leg cramps and quality rest following the lengthy previous game, but his performance did not meet the high expectations set by his earlier feats. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts acknowledged the pressure and expectation placed on Ohtani, noting it might be unfair to anticipate such greatness every time he plays. With the series tied 2-2, Ohtani may focus solely on hitting in the upcoming games, which are critical as the winner of Game 5 will take a commanding lead on the road in Toronto.