Ohtani was intentionally walked multiple times because he is an extraordinarily dangerous hitter who can change the course of a game in a single at-bat, especially when he is hot or has demonstrated power and on-base prowess. Facing him with the plan to pitch around or walk him is often chosen to avoid giving him a chance to beat you with a big swing and to set up favorable matchup opportunities against the next batter(s). The decisions typically hinge on:

• Ohtani’s recent production and the threat of him hitting for power, which can instantly swing a close game.
• The platoon advantage and matchup considerations that might favor a particular hitter against the upcoming pitcher.
• The specific game context (late innings, tied score, runners on base, outs) where a single hit could win or lose the game, making a walk a strategic hedge.
• The Dodgers (or any team facing Ohtani) weighing the risk of him stealing second or creating a scoring opportunity after a base on balls versus risking a dangerous hitter at the plate.

If you’d like, I can summarize recent analyses or provide a quick, concise breakdown of the typical decision logic teams cite for intentionally walking Ohtani in high-leverage spots.