Dodgers' Ohtani to Pitch Angels' Trout in Crucial Rematch

Shohei Ohtani is set to pitch for the Los Angeles Dodgers against his former team, the Los Angeles Angels, in a highly anticipated matchup that also features a rare face-off against former teammate Mike Trout. Ohtani, recovering from his second Tommy John surgery, is being carefully stretched out by Dodgers manager Dave Roberts and will be limited to four innings in his start, marking his first pitching appearance against the Angels. This game rekindles memories of their iconic duel in the 2023 World Baseball Classic final, where Ohtani struck out Trout to win the championship for Japan. Ohtani is having a stellar 2025 season, leading the National League in home runs, runs scored, and OPS, while Trout is making a comeback from injury but struggling somewhat this year as the Angels fall behind in the postseason race. The Dodgers are hoping to maintain their lead in the National League West and repeat as World Series champions, making this contest a significant moment for both players and their teams. The matchup is more than just a game; it is a collision of two modern baseball legends, highlighting Ohtani's dual-threat capabilities and Trout's veteran resilience.