Shohei Ohtani Reveals Dual Role Expectations as New Postseason Role Rumors Heat Up

For the first time this season, the Dodgers’ two-way star pitched the full five innings required to qualify for a win. In what was his 11th start since returning from elbow surgery two years ago, Shohei Ohtani struck out a season-high nine batters over five innings in the Dodgers’ 5-1 victory against the Cincinnati Reds. His last pitching win came in August 2023, when he was with the Angels facing the San Francisco Giants. This time, he permitted only one run on two hits, walked two, and needed a season-high 87 pitches—53 of them strikes—to finish the outing. At the plate, he went 1-for-5 with a run scored.

While on the mound, he did not rely on fastballs and sweepers as he had earlier in the season. Instead, he challenged the Reds with off-speed and secondary pitches before turning to his fastball during the last two innings.

However, let’s also not forget that the Dodgers have always been cautious of Ohtani’s time on the mound. His postgame remarks highlighted the season-long strategy of cautious management of the player by the Dodgers. “The fact that I was able to reach five innings was really key in terms of moving forward. I think moving forward it’s going to be a collaboration between the doctors, the front office and Dave Roberts in terms of how we really proceed with we go more than five.” He said.

Apparently, the Dodgers have hinted at the idea of using Ohtani as a reliever in the postseason. But it’s not that easy. If Ohtani were to enter the game as a reliever, he would give up his spot in the batting order once his turn to hit came around.

When he starts, rules allow him to remain in the game as the designated hitter even after his outing is done. As a reliever, however, it doesn’t work the same. The Dodgers can’t have him as a hitter. Given their heavy dependence on him, it constitutes a substantial risk.

Ohtani has done his part. He has shown the Dodgers that he can carry both roles—on the mound and at the plate. Now, it’s up to the Dodgers how they wish to use him.

Exploring a flexible postseason role for Shohei Ohtani

Shohei Ohtani’s exact role in the Dodgers’ October rotation as a starter appears to provide the most value. By doing so, it allows him to remain in the game as a hitter subsequent to pitching. That’s a key edge that would be lost if he were used in relief.

There’s a real risk with the experiment of toying with the idea of using Ohtani in relief. If Ohtani were to give up the lead during a relief appearance, his bat—one of the most dangerous in all of MLB—would be lost for the remainder of the game.

That could prove costly. Especially in high-stakes postseason matchups. This possible downside could be why the Dodgers are being careful. If they really want to try Ohtani in relief, they might test it during the regular season first to see how it works.

The Dodgers managed to keep Ohtani in California by signing him after he left the Angels. They knew it would take time for him to get back to pitching, but over the past few months, he has been steadily getting back into shape as a starter.

Moreover, he has always preferred so. He has only served as a reliever once; that was when he was with the Angels. Ohtani is willing to help the team however he can. But in case he enters late, loses the lead, and can no longer contribute at the plate, it could backfire.