Shohei Ohtani's highly anticipated return to pitching for the Los Angeles Dodgers is captivating baseball fans. After undergoing elbow surgery, the Dodgers strategically planned his comeback, envisioning him as a dynamic two-way player rather than solely a designated hitter.
Ohtani's Dual Role: A Unique Asset
Ohtani's ability to seamlessly transition between pitching and hitting is a rare and valuable asset. The Dodgers recognized this potential when they signed him, remembering how the lack of the designated hitter in the National League almost cost them his services years prior. His desire to contribute on both sides of the game ultimately led him to the Angels, where he showcased his incredible talent, even finishing second in the American League Cy Young Award race.
Building Up Ohtani: A Gradual Approach
Manager Dave Roberts has adopted a cautious approach to Ohtani's pitching workload. In his initial starts, Ohtani threw just one inning, gradually increasing it to two innings in his most recent outing against the Kansas City Royals. Roberts confirmed that Ohtani would pitch two innings in his upcoming start against the Houston Astros on his 31st birthday.
"2 IP again tomorrow for Shohei Ohtani per #Dodgers Dave Roberts," tweeted Bill Plunkett, highlighting the team's measured strategy.
Dominant Performance: A Glimpse of Greatness
Despite a rocky start against the San Diego Padres, Ohtani has demonstrated his dominance in subsequent appearances. He has thrown three scoreless innings, allowing only one hit and one walk, while striking out three against the Washington Nationals and Royals. His efficiency and command on the mound are promising signs for the Dodgers.
Strategic Lineup: Optimizing Ohtani's Impact
Currently, Ohtani leads off on his pitching days. However, Roberts is considering moving him down in the batting order to allow for more recovery time between his pitching duties and his at-bats. This strategic adjustment aims to maximize Ohtani's overall contribution to the team.
Looking Ahead: Dodgers vs. Astros
Before Ohtani takes the mound, the Dodgers will face the Houston Astros, with Ben Casparius starting on Friday. The Dodgers will need to find a solution to cover the remaining innings on Saturday, following Ohtani's two-inning stint. The team's ability to navigate these pitching challenges will be crucial for their success against the Astros.