As the Los Angeles Dodgers’ Shohei Ohtani ramps up his pitching program, the most pertinent question is when the two-way superstar will return to the mound. After undergoing surgery for a torn left labrum this offseason and a second UCL procedure in September of 2023, Ohtani’s long-term pitching outlook is in question.
MLB Insider Bob Nightengale had this to say on Ohtani, via Dodgers Nation’s Doug McKain:
“I’d be more curious to see what happens after next year,” Nightengale said. “I think he’ll be in the rotation again in 2026, then we’ll see what happens. I think his sheer love is just as a hitter. So it’ll be fascinating in a couple years if he gives up pitching, what do you do? Do they put him in the outfield? Obviously, a great athlete, probably would be a waste as a full-time DH since his athleticism is so good.”
Los Angeles is taking their time with Ohtani, despite recent struggles, as it has plenty of arms to eat innings. Even with Blake Snell, Tony Gonsolin, and Clayton Kershaw injured, the Dodgers still boast a staff of Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Roki Sasaki, Tyler Glasnow, Dustin May, and a bevy of prospects for spot starts.
Ohtani has a career 3.01 ERA and 3.31 FIP over 481 and 2/3 innings, along with a 2022 fourth-place finish in the American League Cy Young vote, and will make a welcome addition whenever he is ready.
Losing his two-way prowess would be a devastating blow not only to the Dodgers but to the Major League executives who rely on his global popularity and Babe Ruth-like appeal.
However, Nightengale makes a good point. Should Ohtani relinquish his pitching responsibilities, what is the best course of action for Los Angeles?
While Ohtani was never a great defensive outfielder, his cannon of an arm and incredible speed alleviate some of the fielding deficiencies.
But, look at his production last season as a full-time designated hitter. Ohtani, of course, had the historic 50 home run, 50 stolen bases campaign, but he also had a .310 batting average, and a National League-leading 1.036 OPS and 190 OPS+.
Those numbers were near or exceeded his career highs, and perhaps he benefited from not having two-way duties. Would Los Angeles be wise to shut him down entirely? That would not maximize Ohtani’s value, but it could ease him into the second half of his career as he turns 31 this July.
