Ohtani’s Uncertain Pitching Future with the Dodgers

Shohei Ohtani’s pitching future with the Dodgers seems uncertain. In his first season, he did not pitch. In the second season, he started in June. Now, midway through the third season, manager Dave Roberts does not have a timeline for Ohtani’s return to the mound.

Roberts on Ohtani’s Pitching Status: “Don’t know yet,” he admitted. The immediate concern is October and the playoffs. Out of four expected starting pitchers, only Yoshinobu Yamamoto is currently pitching. The Dodgers might need to trade to secure another playoff starter.

“We’re not relying solely on Tarik Skubal,” Roberts noted.

Ohtani’s long-term impact as a two-way player raises questions. With seven years remaining on his $700-million contract, fans envision numerous dual-role celebrations. However, injury challenges could limit these opportunities.

Initially sidelined by elbow surgery, Ohtani’s knee irritation now complicates his pitching role. Roberts described the issue with concerning words: “wear and tear.” There is no quick fix. A lubricant injection offers short-term relief. It can be repeated, but effects vary.

Ohtani was set to start pitching on a Wednesday, but discomfort during a warm-up pushed back the date. Roberts commented:

“I would say that it’s going to be some time. It’s not going to be a day-to-day thing.”

Ohtani warming up before facing the Tampa Bay Rays is a familiar sight, yet patience may be needed. Knees are subject to years of athletic wear, as Roberts explained:

“Like all athletes, there is wear and tear over time. Ohtani’s body now shows it. Managing it is crucial.”

Ohtani himself acknowledges this reality. At 32 and entering his 14th professional season, aiming for the National League Cy Young award remains a goal. Yet, he knows the timeline is finite.

In his first 10 starts, Ohtani achieved an impressive 0.74 ERA. Post-knee irritation, his ERA increased to 4.38 over four starts. Can he manage pitching pain? Should he?

For now, irritation affects Ohtani only when pitching, not batting. This keeps him in the lineup as a hitter, where he excelled with 11 home runs since the discomfort surfaced.

Roberts hopes the injection or natural recovery will allow Ohtani to pitch again. “The first step is ensuring he can pitch without regression,” Roberts stated.

The question remains: If Ohtani returns, can he build endurance for deep postseason runs? Ohtani’s absence from the mound for 16 days or more raises that challenge.

The Ohtani Effect spreads beyond the field, influencing merchandise and promotions. His greatness as a player should remain the focus.

Comparing roles, Aaron Judge’s inability to hit impacts the Yankees, who are 18-20 since he suffered a rib injury. In contrast, even when not pitching, Ohtani helps the Dodgers maintain the best record in the major leagues.

The Dodgers do not doubt Ohtani’s pitching viability. But concerns linger about the $700-million deal and its value. With two full seasons and two World Series titles, Ohtani has already shown his worth.