Dave Roberts sparks social media frenzy after removing Shohei Ohtani during no-hitter

It’s not the first time, and it may not be the last. Dave Roberts is once again the target of criticism for his decisions. While this time it wasn’t during a crucial or decisive game, he could have taken a bit more risk with his superstar, Shohei Ohtani.

Social media erupts over Dave Roberts’ decision
The Japanese star Shohei Ohtani, who is gradually reestablishing himself as a dominant pitcher, was throwing a no-hitter through five innings against the Philadelphia Phillies on Tuesday night. However, his feat came to an abrupt end.

Manager Dave Roberts had stated before the game that he would limit Ohtani to five innings, and he stuck to his word, despite Ohtani throwing a no-no with just 68 pitches.

In his place, left-hander Justin Wrobleski came in to relieve the Japanese star, a move that went terribly wrong. Wrobleski allowed a hit to the second batter he faced, ending the no-hit bid. He then surrendered the 4-0 lead by giving up five consecutive hits, including a three-run home run that put Philadelphia ahead 5-4.

As expected, fans were baffled by Roberts’ decision and couldn’t understand where it came from:

Shohei Ohtani didn’t allow a hit through five innings.

Dave Roberts took him out of the game at 68 pitches.

Justin Wrobleski allowed five straight hits, including a three-run home run, and the Dodgers’ 4-0 lead is now a 5-4 deficit.

Just brutal.

— Noah Camras (@noahcamras) September 17, 2025

Dave Roberts checked in with Shohei Ohtani after he pitched 5 no-hit innings vs the Phillies tonight to see if he wanted to keep going & Ohtani told Dave it was his call.

Freddie trolled Dave for looking stressed 🤣

Excellent reporting as always from @kirsten_watson 👏 pic.twitter.com/YyV2cXKAfj

— Dodgers Nation (@DodgersNation) September 17, 2025

Dave Roberts is terrible at knowing when you pull a pitcher. WroBLOWski shoulda been out the game after he loaded the bases

— Mr_Wright34 (@M_Wright34) September 17, 2025