Shohei Ohtani Hits 8th Homer, Starts as Two-Way Player After a Month

Dodgers' Shohei Ohtani hit his 8th seasonal leadoff home run against the Padres, returning as a two-way starter after approximately one month.

Thu May 21 2026

Ohtani Returns as Two-Way Player After One Month

Los Angeles Dodgers player Shohei Ohtani started as a two-way player against the San Diego Padres on May 20, marking his return to pitching and hitting duties after about a month. In his very first at-bat, immediately after the play ball, he swung at the first pitch and launched his 8th seasonal leadoff home run, breaking a 6-game homerless streak and opening the team's offense.

Season's 8th Home Run and Performance

In the game, Ohtani's first-at-bat home run gave his team an early lead. This leadoff home run once again demonstrated his exceptional batting prowess. Furthermore, this game garnered significant attention as it marked his return to the two-way role, performing both as a pitcher and a batter.

*Source: NHK World-Japan (2026-05-21)*

Tags: #ShoheiOhtani #Dodgers #MLB #HomeRun #TwoWayPlayer