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Shohei Ohtani, who grew up in Japan's Iwate prefecture idolizing Yu Darvish, has always harbored dreams of following in his footsteps. Darvish, a former ace for the Nippon Ham Fighters who joined the MLB Texas Rangers in 2012, paved the way for many young Japanese players. Ohtani seized his chance with the Fighters the following season, showcasing his exceptional talents in a dual role. Both players recently joined forces to help Team Japan clinch the 2023 World Baseball Classic.

However, they found themselves on opposing sides for this year's NLDS. In Game 2, Ohtani faced his hero but finished hitless against Darvish, a four-time All-Star. Reflecting on the challenge ahead in a decisive Game 5, Ohtani discussed the complexities of batting against Darvish. "He doesn't rely on one plan," Ohtani shared, highlighting Darvish's seven-pitch mix used against the Dodgers. "As hitters, we have to be able to adjust. That's what makes him good and crafty as well."

In addition to this marquee match-up, the Dodgers faced another hurdle with Miguel Rojas, whose effectiveness was hampered by a groin injury. Once a reliable presence during the regular season, Rojas found himself struggling both defensively and on the base paths during the Dodgers' 6-5 loss in Game 3. Rojas admitted his attempts to push through the injury only worsened the situation. "On that play at second base when I tried to take it myself to the bag, I feel like I reached a little bit for the bag with my left leg, and it was a bad decision," he said. "I made a decision there that hurt me and hurt the team at the time. Unfortunately, I have to deal with the consequences now."

Meanwhile, Mookie Betts had been experiencing an extended hitless streak that spanned two postseason runs, stretching to 22 at-bats. His fortunes turned around dramatically in Games 3 and 4, where he hit home runs in consecutive matches for the first time in his postseason career. Betts downplayed the need to drastically change his pregame routine to snap the slump, emphasizing the importance of finally getting on the scoreboard. "The first one, that was in the midst of the 0-for-whatever, so that was really deflating," Betts explained. "And then (Tuesday) I got to see one fall. I felt kind of like Steph Curry a little bit. I just needed to see one go in and then I knew I could do it."

As the decisive Game 5 approaches, all eyes will be on these key players and their ability to adapt and overcome the intense playoff pressures.