The Los Angeles Dodgers won the opening game of their postseason series against the Atlanta Braves, 読売新聞 reports. The game marked the first meeting of the National League Division Series between the two clubs.
Shohei Ohtani recorded a hit in his first plate appearance of the game, according to 読売新聞. The report did not include the final score or further details of his performance.
Los Angeles manager Dave Roberts said Ohtani came through the game without issue, according to nikkansports.com. Roberts also pointed to encouraging signs from the team's position players, saying some of them are beginning to produce good at-bats, the outlet reported.
San Sports reported that Roberts described Ohtani's four plate appearances positively, citing his strike-zone judgment and the sharpness of his swing. The Dodgers scored five runs on three home runs in the win, and Roberts said taking the first game of the series was important, according to the outlet.
The result drew attention beyond the scoreline. THE DIGEST, via Yahoo! News, reported that the Dodgers' home ballpark had numerous empty seats for a postseason game, a situation the outlet described as unusual and one that prompted reaction in the United States.
Game 2 of the series is scheduled for October 5, with broadcast and streaming details listed by DAZN. Whether the Dodgers can build on the opener — and whether the crowd turnout changes — will be the focus when the series continues.
