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The Los Angeles Dodgers have had tons of uncertainty regarding their bullpen this season, but manager Dave Roberts revealed that the possibility of using Shohei Ohtani in relief come October could very well be an option for LA.
Last month, Dodgers pitching coach Mark Prior spoke on the possibility of Ohtani being used out of the bullpen, and went as far as saying that the notion has “been discussed.” Roberts spoke more openly on the idea on Monday.
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“I can’t answer that question right now,” Roberts said. “But I think that we’re going to do whatever we feel is the best chance to give us a chance to win. And I know Shohei would be open to whatever. We certainly haven’t made that decision yet, though.”
Given the rules that wouldn’t allow Ohtani to be used as a designated hitter, reliever, and upon exiting the mound, going back to being a DH, there is a lot to consider if Ohtani were to pitch in a game he isn’t starting. His talents at the plate, which will almost certainly win him a fourth MVP award, are too valuable to lose later in the game.
A situation that Ohtani would enter the game in relief would have to either be one where his spot in the batting order wouldn’t come around again, or if he is pitching in the bottom of the ninth. Any other relief appearance knowing that Ohtani’s spot in the order is due would have to knowingly be skipped if he is on the mound and then taken out of the game.
Ohtani as a pitcher has a 3.75 ERA across 36 innings this season, striking out 49 and walking just eight all year.
As for the offense that is too valuable to pass up, Ohtani is leading the National League in slugging percentage (.612), OPS (1.002), and intentional walks (16). He is third in baseball in home runs (second in the National League) with 48, and is far and away MLB’s runs leader with 128, as Aaron Judge has 114 in second place.
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Photo Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images
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