Shohei Ohtani Reacts to Mookie Betts News

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Ayomide Adeduyite | Last updated Apr 18, 2026 3:33 PM ET

The Los Angeles Dodgers boast one of the league’s most formidable duos in the MLB: Shohei Ohtani and Mookie Betts. Ohtani was named the 2025 National League MVP, while Betts also played a huge role in the Dodgers’ World Series run last season.

Both players have again helped the Dodgers make a strong start to the 2026 season. The team holds a 15-4 record, the best in the National League, and has looked like the team to beat early in the year.

Ohtani has continued to produce at a high level. He is batting .265 with 5 home runs, 10 RBIs, and a .917 OPS across 19 games. He has also been effective on the mound, posting a 2-0 record with a 0.50 ERA and 18 strikeouts in 18 innings.

Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter Shohei Ohtani (17) and shortstop Mookie Betts (50).© Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

Betts has remained a crucial part of the Dodgers’ lineup, despite his dip in production to start the season. The eight-time All-Star is batting .179 with two home runs, seven RBIs, and a .710 OPS in eight games.

Away from the field, Betts shared personal news on Friday. He announced the birth of his child in an Instagram post, writing: “Khari Betts. The newest addition to the Betts Bunch.”

The post drew strong reactions from fans and players, including Ohtani, who joined more than 96,000 users to like the post.

Betts is currently sidelined with a right oblique strain and was placed on the injured list on April 5. The Dodgers are managing his return carefully, and he is expected to rejoin the lineup later this month.

As for Ohtani, he will be in action again on Saturday when the Dodgers face the Colorado Rockies. The opening pitch is scheduled for 8:10 pm ET, as Los Angeles seeks its fourth consecutive win.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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