Dodgers Manager Impressed by Ohtani's Plate Discipline After Breaking Ichiro's Record

Dave Roberts praises Shohei Ohtani's smart approach at the plate as he surpasses Ichiro's on-base streak.

Apr. 11, 2026 at 4:59pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fractured, multi-perspective painting depicting Shohei Ohtani's batting stance and swing broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric planes in vibrant colors, conceptually representing his disciplined approach at the plate.Ohtani's smart plate discipline helps him reach base and break records, even when his power stroke is not fully unleashed.Los Angeles Today

Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani has broken Ichiro Suzuki's record for the longest on-base streak by a Japanese player, reaching base safely in 44 consecutive games. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts was impressed by Ohtani's plate discipline, noting that he's been taking walks and getting hits despite not feeling fully locked in yet this season.

Why it matters

Ohtani's continued excellence and record-breaking performances cement his status as one of the most dominant and versatile players in Major League Baseball. His ability to excel as both a hitter and pitcher makes him a unique and must-watch talent.

The details

In a game against the Texas Rangers, Ohtani reached base for the 44th straight game, surpassing the previous record held by Ichiro Suzuki. Despite going 1-for-4 with an intentional walk, Ohtani showed his smart approach at the plate, recognizing when teams are pitching around him and taking the free pass.

  • On April 10, 2026, Ohtani broke Ichiro's record of 43 consecutive games reaching base.
  • The Dodgers defeated the Rangers 8-7 in the game where Ohtani set the new record.

The players

Shohei Ohtani

A two-way star for the Los Angeles Dodgers, known for his excellence as both a hitter and pitcher.

Dave Roberts

The manager of the Los Angeles Dodgers, who praised Ohtani's smart approach at the plate.

Ichiro Suzuki

A legendary Japanese baseball player who previously held the record for the longest on-base streak by a Japanese player.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“He's taking walks, he's getting hits, and he really hasn't got going yet.”

— Dave Roberts, Dodgers Manager

“Players like to hit, they like to swing the bat, but he's smart enough to know that if they're not going to pitch to him, they're going to pitch around him, then it's a better plan to take the walk.”

— Dave Roberts, Dodgers Manager

“I thought he was going to hit a home run tonight, and I think he wanted a home run tonight on his bobblehead night, but it just wasn't to be.”

— Dave Roberts, Dodgers Manager

What’s next

Ohtani will look to continue his impressive on-base streak as the Dodgers continue their season, aiming to defend their back-to-back World Series titles.

The takeaway

Shohei Ohtani's ability to adapt his approach at the plate and take walks when teams pitch around him demonstrates his elite baseball IQ and commitment to helping his team win, even when he's not feeling fully locked in offensively.