Shohei Ohtani struggles, Yoshinobu Yamamoto takes second loss, and the Dodgers suffer a 0-3 shutout by the Pirates. Can they bounce back?
Shohei Ohtani Struggles Against Rising Star Paul Skenes
The highly anticipated matchup between Shohei Ohtani and Paul Skenes did not live up to the hopes of Dodgers fans.
Paul Skenes, the No. 1 overall draft pick two years ago and last season’s National League Rookie of the Year, completely shut down Ohtani.
First At-Bat: Overpowered by a 159 km/h (99 mph) four-seam fastball, Ohtani flied out to center field.
Second At-Bat: With a runner on second, he grounded back to the pitcher.
Third At-Bat: Struck out swinging on a devastating curveball.
Fourth At-Bat: Flew out again to center field after facing Dennis Santana.
Result: Ohtani went 0-for-4, unable to produce any offense in crucial moments.
Fans were left stunned as even when Andy Pagés created opportunities with two doubles, Ohtani and the Dodgers lineup failed to capitalize.
Paul Skenes: A New Ace is Born
Paul Skenes wasn’t just throwing fire — he combined his blazing 100 mph fastball with a vicious mix of curveballs and changeups, making even elite hitters like Ohtani look helpless.
The Pirates’ bullpen followed Skenes’ dominance by locking down the Dodgers offense completely, achieving a combined shutout victory.
Yoshinobu Yamamoto Takes a Hard-Luck Loss
Starting pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto was not at his best either. Despite showing decent control early, Pirates hitters showcased remarkable discipline, forcing four walks — the worst in Yamamoto’s MLB career so far.
Although he only allowed three runs in five innings, the Dodgers’ silent bats provided no run support.
Yamamoto now suffers his second loss of the season.
Dodgers in Trouble? Third Straight Loss Raises Concerns
Once considered unstoppable with the additions of Ohtani, Yamamoto, and Sasaki, the Dodgers are suddenly on a three-game losing streak.
Losing to the last-place Pirates has fans and analysts asking:
Is this just a slump — or the beginning of deeper problems?
The Dodgers will attempt to bounce back tomorrow (April 27, Japan time) in Game 2 of the series at Dodger Stadium.
Game Summary: Dodgers vs. Pirates (April 26, 2025)
Final Score: Dodgers 0 – Pirates 3
Winning Pitcher: Paul Skenes (PIT)
Losing Pitcher: Yoshinobu Yamamoto (LAD)
Home Runs: None
Highlights: Skenes 6+ innings, Ohtani 0-for-4, Pagés 2 doubles
Final Thoughts
Shohei Ohtani’s struggles, Yoshinobu Yamamoto’s walks, and the Dodgers’ silent bats are major storylines not only in Japan but across the MLB.
All eyes will be on tomorrow’s game:
Can the Dodgers stop the bleeding, or will the Pirates deliver another upset?
Stay tuned for more breaking MLB 2025 news and highlights!
