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**Dodgers’ Ohtani Shines on Mound, But Bullpen Falters as Postseason Looms**

LOS ANGELES – As October baseball draws near, Shohei Ohtani is rounding into form on the mound for the Los Angeles Dodgers, showcasing a dominant performance against the Arizona Diamondbacks on Tuesday night. However, the team’s bullpen woes continue to cast a shadow over their postseason aspirations.

Ohtani delivered his third consecutive scoreless outing, pitching a season-high six innings and striking out eight Diamondbacks. He reached a season-high of 91 pitches in his 100th career big league start, demonstrating a fastball that consistently clocked in at 98-100 mph, peaking at 101.2 mph. He allowed five hits, all singles, and even showcased his athleticism with a slick double play to end the fifth inning.

The Dodgers held a comfortable 4-0 lead when Ohtani exited the game, but their bullpen couldn’t maintain the advantage. Arizona rallied to secure a 5-4 victory.

The Diamondbacks chipped away, eventually tying the game in the ninth inning with a sacrifice fly. Geraldo Perdomo then delivered the decisive blow, singling home the winning run off Dodgers closer Tanner Scott.

Ohtani’s recent performances mark a significant step in his return from elbow surgery that sidelined him from pitching for the entire 2024 season. He has progressively increased his pitch count, and his command and velocity are steadily improving. Before Tuesday’s showing, Ohtani worked five hitless innings in his last start on Sept. 16 against the Philadelphia Phillies.

While Ohtani struggled at the plate on Tuesday, going 0-for-3 with a walk, his pitching prowess offers a glimmer of hope for the Dodgers as they prepare for the playoffs. The team will need to find solutions to their bullpen issues if they want to compete with other teams to win the World Series.

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