Shohei Ohtani finally returned to the mound last week for the first time since August 2023, and now, in his second start, MLB fans are already questioning what they are seeing.

The two-way phenom once again pitched just one inning in Sunday’s game against the Nationals. Despite being billed as a “start,” Ohtani threw only 18 pitches, striking out two Nationals hitters in a quick, scoreless frame. While the Dodgers fans were over the moon to see their superstar in action, other baseball fans were not impressed with the hype.

Despite the 13-7 win, baseball fans were not letting Ohtani or the Dodgers off the hook for the short outing.

“These Ohtani one inning “starts” gotta be the biggest scam going on in sports these days,” one X user wrote.

“Stop glazing over his pitching,” another social media user commented.

“Only one inning where they didn’t score is trash,” another fan commented.

“Inning” Jesus, can you chill on the meat-riding,” one fan replied.

“A scoreless inning? Are we serious?” another X user asked.

“Max Muncy had 2 homers and 7 RBIs and you use 2 pictures of Ohtani lol,” one fan taunted.

“Special rule for Dodgers. 1 inning by starter qualifies for win,” another baseball ban wrote.

Shohei Ohtani Delivers, Dodgers Rally Late

Shohei Ohtani (image Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images)
At the plate, though, Ohtani reminded everyone why he is still the most dangerous hitter in the league. He launched a three-run triple in the seventh inning and followed it up with a two-run homer in the eighth, finishing with five RBIs on the night. His offensive explosion helped lift the Dodgers to a 13-7 win over the Nationals.

The Dodgers trailed early before Max Muncy’s grand slam flipped the momentum in the sixth inning. Ohtani’s late-game fireworks at the plate turned the contest into a rout. His homer in the eighth inning essentially sealed the deal as L.A. completed the series win.