Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts recently discussed the possibility of two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani making his pitching debut with the team in the upcoming playoffs.
However, Dodgers general manager Brandon Gomes, in an interview on “MLB Now,” seemed to dismiss the rumor, stating that it is unlikely for Ohtani to pitch during the postseason as he is still recovering from elbow surgery.
The 30-year-old Japanese sensation has been making progress in his recovery from last September’s elbow surgery.
“Dave Roberts opened the door to the possibility of [Ohtani] pitching this postseason. Where are you on that?” asked Brian Kenny.
“That feels very unlikely right now. I think he’s just going through his throwing progression and he feels really good, which is important, but at this point I don’t see him pitching in the postseason,” Gomes responded.
“Ok, so you’re not planning on that? That won’t suddenly pop up as a thing?” Kenny confirmed.
“No, that’s not in the plans as of now,” Gomes said.
Gomes’ comments came after Ohtani’s outstanding hitting performance in the Dodgers’ recent win against the Miami Marlins. Ohtani’s performance included three home runs, two doubles, 10 RBI, and two steals, solidifying his place as one of the best hitters in MLB.
With 51 home runs and 51 stolen bases in the 2024 season, Ohtani is a frontrunner for his third MVP award. Although Dodgers fans may have to wait until 2025 to see Ohtani pitch, his hitting prowess has been nothing short of exceptional this year.
