Shohei Ohtani's Flexible Role in Potential World Series Game 7
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts is open to using Shohei Ohtani in unconventional roles if Los Angeles forces a Game 7 against Toronto. Roberts might deploy Ohtani as an opener or even as an outfielder to maximize his impact.
Ohtani threw 93 pitches in the Dodgers' 6-2 loss in Game 4 and could be available as a reliever during the upcoming games in Toronto. However, if Ohtani comes in as a reliever after starting as a designated hitter (DH), the Dodgers would lose their DH spot. He can keep the DH role if he starts as the pitcher.
"I think we would consider everything," Roberts said on Thursday, a day before Game 6. "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 planned to discuss strategic options with Ohtani later on Thursday. Although Ohtani has never pitched in relief during his Major League Baseball career, he made some relief appearances as a rookie in Japan's Pacific League in 2013.
Notably, Ohtani closed out Japan’s victory in the 2023 World Baseball Classic final against the United States by striking out then-Los Angeles Angels teammate Mike Trout for the final out.
On Thursday, Ohtani took on-field batting practice, an unusual move, hitting balls off a hotel behind center field.
Author's summary: Dodgers' manager Dave Roberts is ready to use Shohei Ohtani in various roles, including reliever or outfielder, to maximize their chances in a potential World Series Game 7.