(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Shohei Ohtani Shines in Anaheim Return, Dodgers Edge Angels 5-4
August 14, 2025 –
Anaheim, Calif. – Shohei Ohtani made a memorable return to the Angel Stadium mound, pitching 4 1/3 innings of five-hit, four-run ball while also showing off his hitting skills in the Los Angeles Dodgers’ 5-4 win over the Angels on Wednesday night.
Two-Way Star Performance
Ohtani, in his first pitching appearance in Anaheim since leaving the Angels nearly two years ago, struck out seven batters, including friend and former teammate Mike Trout twice. He also contributed offensively, tripling and scoring as the Dodgers’ leadoff hitter before taking the mound, giving the Dodgers an early lead.
Pitching Highlights
Ohtani’s start was his longest since returning to pitching two months ago. He allowed a two-run homer to Taylor Ward in the second inning and struggled in the fifth, giving up three consecutive hits before leaving after a two-run double by Zach Neto, trimming the Dodgers’ lead to 5-4.
Fan Reaction
Despite leaving the Angels, Ohtani remains beloved in Anaheim. Fans cheered his every move, especially his duels with Trout. In a dramatic first inning, Ohtani struck out Trout looking after a sequence of fastballs, echoing their famous matchups in Tokyo.
Series Notes
Before taking the mound, Ohtani homered earlier in the series, and during Wednesday’s game, he continued to energize the Dodgers lineup. Teammates Mookie Betts and Will Smith contributed with timely hits, helping the Dodgers maintain a slim lead.
Road to Recovery
Ohtani had not pitched at Angel Stadium since August 23, 2023, when an elbow injury later revealed as a torn ligament ended his season. After surgery and signing a 10-year, $700 million contract with the Dodgers, he returned to the mound two months ago, balancing pitching duties with his role as designated hitter and leadoff hitter.
Ohtani’s return thrilled fans and showcased why he remains one of baseball’s most electrifying two-way players, blending pitching dominance with offensive firepower in a classic Freeway Series showdown.
