Shohei Ohtani strikes out 11 in final tune-up before opening day
Angels shut out Dodgers 3-0 in Freeway Series finale
Mar 23, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter Shohei Ohtani (17) and Los Angeles Angels shortstop Zach Neto (9) chat during the third inning of a spring training game at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images | Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images The Dodgers failed to score a run in the final game of the Freeway Series against the Angels on Tuesday night, but Ohtani’s 11-strikeout performance provided reassurance that he is ready for regular season work out of the Dodgers rotation. On the eve of MLB opening day, the Dodgers started the first frame strong with two strikeouts by Ohtani and a spinning throw from shortstop Mookie Betts to retire Nolan Schanuel.
Mookie Betts showing off his range 💪 pic. twitter. com/HAvDJ2Tfb6 — MLB (@MLB) March 25, 2026 Three straight strikeouts from Ohtani in the second inning stranded the first two runners who reached base against him with a single and a walk.
Ohtani mowed down eight of the first 11 batters he faced via the strikeout. I think he may be ready for the regular season. Shohei — the pitcher — looks ready to go!
11 strikeouts in 4+ innings for Ohtani 😤 pic. twitter. com/YocDJMLKgy — MLB (@MLB) March 25, 2026 Jack Kochanowicz was having a great game himself against the Dodgers offense.