What's Happening?
The Los Angeles Dodgers are contemplating using Shohei Ohtani as a relief pitcher in the playoffs, in addition to his role as a starter. President of baseball operations Andrew Friedman confirmed the possibility, citing the unpredictable nature of postseason play. Ohtani, who has returned from Tommy John surgery, has been effective as a starter with a 3.75 ERA. The team is weighing the benefits of utilizing Ohtani's pitching skills in late-game situations, similar to past strategies with pitchers like Walker Buehler.
Why It's Important?
Ohtani's dual role as a pitcher and hitter presents unique strategic opportunities for the Dodgers. His potential use in the bullpen could provide the team with flexibility in high-stakes games, potentially giving them an edge in close contests. However, MLB's two-way player rules complicate this strategy, as using Ohtani in relief could limit his availability as a designated hitter. The decision could significantly impact the Dodgers' playoff performance and their ability to advance.
What's Next?
The Dodgers will continue to evaluate Ohtani's role as they approach the playoffs. His current pitching schedule aligns with a potential wild card series start, but the team remains open to adjusting his role based on game situations. The decision will depend on various factors, including the performance of other pitchers and the team's overall playoff strategy.
