Dodgers Eyeing Versatile Role for Ohtani as World Series Elimination Looms
Versatility on the Table for Shohei Ohtani
The Los Angeles Dodgers find themselves in a precarious position as they face elimination in the 2025 World Series, trailing the Toronto Blue Jays 3-2 in the series. With the stakes higher than ever, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts is considering all options for Shohei Ohtani's utilization in a potential Game 7.
Roberts emphasized that they will explore every possibility, stating, "Everything should be on the table and will be, for sure." One of the strategies being contemplated involves deploying Ohtani in the outfield despite his limited experience, as the team seeks to maximize his contributions for a critical showdown.
Ohtani's Recent Performance
In this year's Fall Classic, Ohtani has remained a standout player, earning NLCS MVP honors by slashing an impressive .316/.500/.895, including three home runs in the first five games. However, his last outing on the mound during Game 4 raised some concerns; he allowed six hits and four earned runs in six innings, with six strikeouts and one walk, culminating in a 6-2 defeat for the Dodgers.
Given that another full start on short rest is off the table, Roberts is looking at creative ways to bring Ohtani into the game. Options include using him as an opener for the first inning or two or bringing him in as a reliever. However, there are complications: if Ohtani starts as designated hitter, the Dodgers would lose their DH spot for the rest of the game, forcing them to shift him to the outfield if they wish to keep him involved.
Ohtani Open to New Roles
Despite having only seven games of outfield experience in his MLB career, Ohtani has expressed a willingness to adapt. "As a player, if I'm told to go somewhere, I want to be prepared to do so," he remarked earlier in the postseason. This adaptability could prove essential as the Dodgers strategize for a must-win scenario.
As the drama unfolds in the World Series, all eyes will be on how the Dodgers choose to leverage Ohtani's unique skill set in their bid to keep their championship hopes alive.
