Shohei Ohtani Hits Two Homers, Ties 119‑Year‑Old Record in Dodgers' Game 3 World Series Victory
Shohei Ohtani delivered a historic performance on Monday night, smashing two home runs and recording four extra‑base hits in the Los Angeles Dodgers' 5‑2 win over the Texas Rangers in Game 3 of the World Series. The feat tied a 119‑year‑old major‑league record for most extra‑base hits in a single World Series game, a milestone last reached in the 19th century.
The Japanese star, who entered the game as the designated hitter, opened the scoring in the second inning with a solo shot to left‑center field. He added a second homer in the fifth, a two‑run blast that extended the Dodgers' lead and effectively put the game out of reach. In addition to the homers, Ohtani collected a double and a triple, showcasing his rare combination of power and speed.
Officials at Dodger Stadium highlighted the significance of Ohtani's performance for the series. A league spokesperson noted that his multi‑hit effort underscored the growing impact of two‑way players in modern baseball. Analysts pointed out that Ohtani's versatility continues to challenge traditional positional roles, offering teams a strategic advantage that was unheard of in earlier eras of the sport.
Following the game, the Dodgers' manager praised Ohtani's contribution, saying that his performance “provided a momentum shift that the team needed at this critical juncture.” The Rangers' coaching staff, while acknowledging the loss, emphasized the importance of regrouping ahead of the next contest, noting that the series remains open and competitive.
The win gave the Dodgers a 2‑1 series lead and placed them one victory away from clinching their first World Series title since 2020. Looking ahead, both teams are expected to adjust their pitching rotations, with experts predicting tighter games as the series progresses. If Ohtani can maintain his current level of production, he could become a decisive factor in the championship outcome, further cementing his place among baseball's most dynamic talents.
