The Los Angeles Dodgers are heading into the postseason for the 12th consecutive year, aiming to break their championship drought since their 2020 triumph.
This season, they have an ace up their sleeve—Japanese superstar Shohei Ohtani. Though Ohtani’s inclusion has raised hopes, the team faces a significant challenge regarding his role.
Ohtani, known for both his batting and pitching prowess, might be limited to hitting, with concerns surrounding his recovery from recent surgery.
Baseball columnist Bob Nightengale has cast doubt on the likelihood of Ohtani pitching in October.
Speaking with Dodgers Nation’s Doug McKain, Nightengale stated there’s “no chance” Ohtani will pitch, explaining that given the financial investment in the star and his surgery last September, the risk would be too great. Additionally, logistical challenges arise, such as the difficulty of using Ohtani as a pitcher in high-pressure situations while also handling his responsibilities as a batter.
Although Dodgers’ president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman has confirmed that Ohtani pitching isn’t under consideration, the team’s thinning bullpen could change the scenario.
Despite the obstacles, the Dodgers remain hopeful Ohtani’s presence will help propel them to another World Series victory.
