Dodgers Consider All Options for Ohtani in Potential World Series Finale

Los Angeles dodgers manager Dave Roberts indicated on Thursday,October 26,2023,that he would ‌consider using Shohei Ohtani in a variety of⁤ roles⁢ – including ⁤as an opener,reliever,or even an outfielder – if⁤ the Dodgers force a Game 7 against the Toronto Blue Jays in the World Series. This comes after Ohtani threw 93 pitches in ⁣wednesday’s 6-2 loss in Game 4 ⁢ (ESPN).

The unusual consideration stems from‌ MLB rules regarding the designated hitter (DH). If Ohtani were to enter the game as a reliever *after* starting as the ⁣DH,⁢ the Dodgers would forfeit their DH spot. However,Ohtani⁢ can remain as the DH if he‍ also starts as the pitcher.

“I think we would ⁤consider everything,” Roberts said, according to​ ESPN. “It’s more of just kind of doing whatever we can to get‌ through tomorrow and then pick up the pieces and then see what’s the⁤ best way to attack a potential Game 7.​ So everything should be on the table and will be, for sure.” Roberts plans to⁤ discuss these options with Ohtani later on Thursday.

Ohtani’s Relief Experience

While Ohtani has never pitched in ‍relief ‌during his Major League⁢ Baseball ‍career,he does have limited experience in that role from his time in Japan. He made several relief appearances‍ for the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters, notably early in his ⁤career in⁤ 2013. Notably, he closed out Japan’s victory ⁣in the 2023 world‍ Baseball Classic final against the United States, striking out Mike‍ Trout for the final out (MLB.com).

Outfield Option and Postseason Performance

Ohtani has also played the outfield, making seven appearances ‌for the Los Angeles Angels in 2021, before a rule​ change allowed ‌starting pitchers to remain ​in the game as the DH after being ⁢removed from the ⁢mound⁣ (MLB.com).

Through ⁣the 2023 postseason, Ohtani is batting .250 with eight home runs, 14‍ RBIs, and ‌14 walks, posting a 1.109 OPS. On the mound, he is 2-1 with a 3.50 ERA ⁣and 25 strikeouts in 18 innings pitched.

Strategic Implications

The ​Dodgers are clearly exploring all avenues to maximize Ohtani’s impact in a potential Game 7.⁣ The⁣ decision will likely hinge on​ game ‌situation, Ohtani’s ‌physical condition, and the​ strategic advantages of each option.⁤ Using Ohtani as an opener or reliever would allow him to contribute on the mound while preserving his bat in the lineup.