Dodgers' Shohei Ohtani Reaches 1,000 Hits, Records Rare Pitch-Hit Feat in Loss

Shohei Ohtani achieved a milestone by recording the 1,000th hit of his MLB career with a two-run home run that temporarily put the Los Angeles Dodgers ahead against the St. Louis Cardinals. As a starting pitcher, he delivered a dominant performance with eight strikeouts in four innings, allowing just one run and two hits. Ohtani also made history by becoming the first MLB player since 1920 to hit a home run, strike out at least eight batters, have more RBIs than runs allowed, and draw more walks than allowed in a single game. Despite his exceptional two-way display, the Dodgers bullpen faltered after his exit, allowing four runs and leading to a 5-3 loss. The Dodgers' offense could not capitalize sufficiently, with hits being too spaced out, although Freddie Freeman and Alex Call contributed multiple hits. Ohtani's unique and historic performance underscores his status as one of baseball's most special players, even in defeat.