During Thursday’s game against the Los Angeles Dodgers, Shohei Ohtani, sitting on 49 home runs, stepped up to the plate with runners at second and third in the seventh inning. With the Marlins already trailing 11-3, the option to intentionally walk Ohtani with first base open was a viable strategy, albeit without significant consequences.
Television cameras captured Marlins manager Skip Schumaker in the dugout as the decision was made to pitch to Ohtani. Schumaker’s visible reaction and emphatic words, “f— that,” made it clear that he was not inclined to intentionally walk Ohtani.
Unsurprisingly, Ohtani seized the opportunity and homered to left, etching his name in MLB history as the first player to achieve 50 home runs and 50 stolen bases in a single season.
While some may question Schumaker’s decision, it’s worth acknowledging his support for pitcher Mike Baumann in facing Ohtani.
Given the game’s lopsided score, the only tangible advantage of intentionally walking Ohtani at that juncture would have been to prevent the home run.
As Schumaker’s managerial tenure with the Marlins may come to an end this offseason, his bold stance against intentionally walking Ohtani demonstrates his unwavering commitment.
Despite the impending changes, Schumaker’s decision reflects his steadfast approach, solidifying his position as a respected figure in the league.
