Full Breakdown
Dodgers Weigh Options for Shohei Ohtani's Role in Playoffs Amid Bullpen Struggles
9/11/2025, 2:51:09 PM
Current Situation and Managerial Insights
As the Los Angeles Dodgers approach the postseason, uncertainty looms over their bullpen performance, prompting manager Dave Roberts to consider unconventional solutions, including the potential use of designated hitter Shohei Ohtani as a relief pitcher. The Dodgers' bullpen has logged the most innings in Major League Baseball this season, totaling 585.2 innings with a 4.20 ERA, ranking 19th in the league. Roberts emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating, “This is our pennant race right now. It started early, and we’ve got to win every game.” He highlighted the importance of trust in his bullpen, noting that players earn that trust through performance.
Ohtani's Potential Transition to Relief
Ohtani has demonstrated his capabilities as a starter, posting a 3.75 ERA over 12 starts, but the postseason typically requires a more streamlined rotation. With the Dodgers likely to limit their starting pitchers to four, competition for spots is fierce among Ohtani, Blake Snell, Tyler Glasnow, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Clayton Kershaw, and Emmet Sheehan. Roberts acknowledged the possibility of Ohtani stepping into a relief role, stating, “I think that we’re going to do whatever we feel is the best chance to give us a chance to win. And I know Shohei would be open to whatever.”
Logistical Challenges of Ohtani's Role
The prospect of Ohtani pitching in high-pressure situations, such as the ninth inning, presents logistical challenges. Ideally, he would warm up in the bullpen after completing an out in the seventh inning, but this scenario is complicated. If Ohtani is called to hit, he would need to dash back and forth between the dugout and the bullpen, which could disrupt his rhythm. Furthermore, if he cannot finish the game, the Dodgers would lose their designated hitter position, a consequence governed by the "Ohtani rule." This rule allows a two-way player to maintain their DH status unless they switch to a defensive position other than pitcher.
Criticism and Opposition
Despite the potential benefits of utilizing Ohtani in relief, there are concerns regarding the impact on his performance as a hitter. Critics argue that the demands of switching roles could hinder his effectiveness at the plate, especially in crucial playoff moments. Additionally, the Dodgers' reliance on Ohtani could be seen as a failure to address the underlying issues within the bullpen, particularly the struggles of high-profile acquisitions Tanner Scott and Kirby Yates.
Looking Ahead
As the Dodgers continue to evaluate their bullpen options, the decision regarding Ohtani's role may become a defining narrative of their playoff run. With the stakes rising, Roberts and the Dodgers face a critical period of decision-making as they strive for postseason success. The effectiveness of their bullpen, alongside Ohtani's potential transition, will play a significant role in determining the team's trajectory in the playoffs.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This is our pennant race right now. It started early, and we’ve got to win every game,” — Dave Roberts, Dodgers Manager
- “But I think that we’re going to do whatever we feel is the best chance to give us a chance to win. And I know Shohei would be open to whatever. We certainly haven’t made that decision yet, though.” — Dave Roberts, Dodgers Manager
- “If that [two-way player] pitcher bats or runs as Designated Hitter, such move will not terminate the Designated Hitter role for that Club; neither will the role be terminated in the event that Designated Hitter assumes the role of pitcher on defense. However, if that player is switched from the mound or Designated Hitter role to a position on defense other than pitcher, such move will terminate the Designated Hitter role for that Club for the remainder of the game.” — Rule 5.11(b), "Ohtani Rule."
