Jun 19, 2024; Denver, Colorado, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter Shohei Ohtani (17) during the fifth inning against the Colorado Rockies at Coors Field. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
Shohei Ohtani’s return to Angel Stadium on May 16, 2025, marked a significant chapter in the ongoing rivalry between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Los Angeles Angels. Having signed a record-breaking 10-year, $700 million contract with the Dodgers in December 2023, Ohtani’s move was one of the most talked-about in recent MLB history. This game, the first of a three-game series between the two teams, was more than just a regular-season matchup—it was a reunion filled with emotions, anticipation, and high stakes.
The atmosphere at Angel Stadium was electric as fans filled the stands, eager to witness the return of the two-way superstar who had spent six seasons with the Angels. Ohtani, who had won two AL MVP awards and a Rookie of the Year trophy during his tenure with the Angels, was greeted with a warm reception from the home crowd. Despite his departure, his legacy in Anaheim remained strong, and the fans showed their appreciation for his contributions to the team.
On the mound for the Dodgers was Tyler Glasnow, who had been a formidable presence in the rotation since joining the team. His performance against the Angels was crucial, as the Dodgers aimed to assert their dominance in the Freeway Series. Meanwhile, the Angels countered with their ace, Reid Detmers, hoping to even the series and prove their mettle against their cross-town rivals.
The game began with both teams showcasing strong pitching, keeping the score tied through the early innings. However, in the third inning, Ohtani made his presence felt. Facing Detmers, Ohtani launched a towering triple into the right-center field gap, driving in a run and giving the Dodgers a 1-0 lead. The hit was a testament to his enduring skill and ability to perform under pressure.
As the game progressed, the tension between the two teams escalated. In the top of the 10th inning, with the score tied at 2-2, the Dodgers found themselves with runners on base and Ohtani coming to the plate. The Angels, aware of Ohtani’s power, chose to intentionally walk him, setting up a potential double play situation. However, Dodgers’ slugger Mookie Betts made the Angels pay for their decision. With Ohtani standing on first, Betts crushed a three-run homer off Angels reliever Roansy Contreras, giving the Dodgers a commanding 5-2 lead. The home run not only secured the victory for the Dodgers but also highlighted the depth of their lineup and the challenges faced by opposing pitchers when dealing with their formidable hitters.
Ohtani’s performance in the game was a reminder of his exceptional talent and versatility. Although he did not record a hit in his subsequent at-bats, his early triple and the strategic walk in the 10th inning underscored his importance to the Dodgers’ offense. His ability to impact the game in various ways, whether through his bat, his presence on the base paths, or his leadership, has been invaluable to the team.
Off the field, Ohtani’s return to Anaheim was marked by emotional reunions with former teammates and staff. Before the game, he shared heartfelt moments with Angels stars like Mike Trout and Taylor Ward, exchanging handshakes and words of encouragement. These interactions highlighted the strong bonds he had formed during his time with the Angels and the mutual respect between him and his former colleagues.
The game also had significant implications for the standings. The Dodgers, coming off a World Series championship in 2024, were looking to continue their dominance in the National League. The Angels, on the other hand, were striving to build a competitive team capable of contending in the AL West. Each game in the Freeway Series was an opportunity for both teams to assert their superiority and make a statement to their fans and the league.
Looking ahead, the rivalry between the Dodgers and Angels is poised to intensify. With Ohtani now donning the Dodgers’ blue, every matchup between the two teams carries added significance. Fans can expect more thrilling encounters, emotional reunions, and high-stakes games as both teams vie for supremacy in Southern California.
In the grand narrative of Ohtani’s career, his return to Angel Stadium in a Dodgers uniform is a poignant chapter. It serves as a reminder of his remarkable journey and the indelible mark he has left on the sport of baseball. As the season progresses, all eyes will remain on Ohtani, the Dodgers, and the Angels, eager to witness the next installment of this compelling rivalry.
In conclusion, Shohei Ohtani’s return to Angel Stadium was more than just a game—it was a celebration of his illustrious career, a testament to his enduring impact on the sport, and a preview of the exciting baseball yet to come. As the Dodgers and Angels continue their rivalry, fans can look forward to more unforgettable moments and thrilling baseball action.
