Shohei Ohtani’s Historic NLCS Performance Sends Dodgers to the World Series

In a performance already being hailed as the greatest in postseason history, Shohei Ohtani delivered a jaw-dropping two-way masterclass in Game 4 of the National League Championship Series, propelling the Los Angeles Dodgers to a 5–1 victory over the Milwaukee Brewers and securing their spot in the World Series.

Shohei Ohtani after hitting one of three homeruns.

A Night for the Ages

Ohtani, wearing number 17, etched his name deeper into baseball lore by becoming just the 12th player to hit three home runs in a single playoff game. But that was only half the story. On the mound, he pitched six scoreless innings, struck out 10 batters, and allowed just two hits.^{1 2 3}

• Batting Brilliance: Ohtani came to the plate four times, walked once, and launched three towering home runs, each more emphatic than the last.¹

• Pitching Dominance: His fastball was electric, his splitter unhittable. The Brewers were left flailing as Ohtani carved through their lineup.^{2 3}

Reactions from the Field

Dodgers teammate Mookie Betts summed up the moment with a comparison that resonated: “It’s like we’re the Chicago Bulls, and he’s Michael Jordan”.² Even Brewers ace Freddy Peralta, despite the sting of elimination, couldn’t help but admire Ohtani’s brilliance: “He’s on another level, man. Unbelievable, what he did”.⁴

Ohtani was named NLCS MVP for his performance.

NLCS MVP and Beyond

Ohtani was named NLCS MVP for his transcendent performance, capping off a postseason in which he’s already hit five home runs and continued to dominate on the mound. With 55 regular-season homers and a pitching résumé that rivals the best in the game, Ohtani’s “unicorn” status is no longer just a nickname—it’s a reality.^{4 1}

Local Impact for the Antelope Valley

For fans in Antelope Valley, where baseball passion runs deep, Ohtani’s performance is more than just a highlight—it’s a moment of pride. His excellence resonates with a community that values grit, versatility, and the ability to rise when it matters most.

References

¹Yes, Shohei Ohtani just delivered the best playoff performance in MLB .... https://www.cbssports.com/mlb/news/shohei-ohtani-delivers-the-best-playoff-performance-in-mlb-history-as-dodgers-clinch-pennant-vs-brewers/

²Ohtani's 3-HR, 10-K gem sparks Dodgers' NLCS sweep of Brewers. https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/46632388/ohtani-epic-2-way-show-sparks-dodgers-nlcs-sweep-brewers"

³Shohei Ohtani hits 3 homers, dominates on mound in Dodgers’ clinching 5 .... https://www.nbcsports.com/mlb/news/shohei-ohtani-hits-3-homers-dominates-on-mound-in-dodgers-clinching-5-1-nlcs-win-over-brewers

⁴From one ace to another: Brewers’ Freddy Peralta gives Shohei Ohtani his flowers for historic Game 4 performance. https://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/mlb/from-one-ace-to-another-brewers-freddy-peralta-gives-shohei-ohtani-his-flowers-for-historic-game-4-performance/ar-AA1OJ3oC