Los Angeles Dodgers Give Shocking and Confusing Update on Superstar Shohei Ohtani
Los Angeles Dodgers' manager Dave Roberts gave an interesting and frankly confusing update regarding superstar Shohei Ohtani on Monday.
Ohtani, who won't pitch at all this season as he recovers from elbow surgery, could end up playing the field later this season as he goes through his rehab. He'll begin a throwing program when the Dodgers get back from their season-opening series in Korea.
Per Fabian Ardaya of 'The Athletic:'
That includes, Roberts said, the possibility of a conversation about Ohtani playing a position at some point, rendering the first base mitt and outfielder’s glove sitting in his locker this spring more than just ornaments.
“We’ll see how that progression goes,” Roberts said. “If his arm is healthy enough, we’ll have that conversation in the field. I do know he’s not gonna pitch this year. But right now, our only focus is him being a designated hitter.”
So, sure, it's a vague possibility, but it's one that frankly doesn't make a lot of sense. Ohtani hasn't played the field regularly since 2014 in Japan and it doesn't seem like a smart organizational decision regarding the $700 million investment.
It seems as if the best course of action is to let Ohtani heal his arm and go through normal rehab for a pitcher with the goal of pitching again fully in 2025 - all of course while letting him be the best designated hitter option in the league.
The Dodgers open up the season against the San Diego Padres in Korea. First pitch is set for 6 a.m. ET.
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