What happened: Los Angeles shortstop Mookie Betts said he relates to Shohei Ohtani grinding to regain his swing. Betts fractured his hand in 2024 and altered his swing and body to keep playing. He said those compensations hurt his own game without him realizing it.

Why it matters: Los Angeles is playing October baseball with Ohtani central to its lineup. Betts pointed to the weight of global expectations while slumping. A short series leaves little time for swing changes to take hold.

What to watch: Watch Ohtani's next postseason at-bats for signs the adjustments hold. Los Angeles continues its October schedule.