Shohei Ohtani’s pitching future with the Los Angeles Dodgers remains uncertain. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts recently admitted he could not specify when Ohtani might pitch again due to ongoing issues.
October Concerns
For the Dodgers, October is critical. Of their planned postseason starting pitchers—Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Blake Snell, Tyler Glasnow, and Ohtani—only Yamamoto is currently pitching in major league games. The team may need to consider trading for another starting pitcher for playoff assurance.
Ohtani’s Contract and Potential
Ohtani’s $700 million contract extends seven years beyond this season. Dodger fans anticipated many opportunities to see him excel as a two-way player. Yet, he did not pitch during his first 18 months with the Dodgers due to elbow surgery recovery. Now, his challenge comes from left knee irritation.
“Wear and tear,” is how Roberts described Ohtani’s condition, implying a long-term management issue.
The lubricant injection Ohtani received offers temporary relief. However, it is not a permanent fix. His irritation must be managed carefully throughout his career. Dodgers had planned for Ohtani to pitch a game, but discomfort while playing catch led to further delays.
Understanding the Implications
At 32, Ohtani enters his 14th professional season. He aimed to win the National League Cy Young award this year, potentially his last opportunity to pitch at the highest level consistently. In his first 10 starts this season, his performance was stellar with a 0.74 ERA. However, his ERA rose to 4.38 since the knee issues emerged on June 10.
If Ohtani continues to experience discomfort only while pitching, Dodgers plan not to limit his hitting. Despite these challenges, Ohtani has still been an offensive powerhouse.
Future Considerations
The Dodgers hope Ohtani’s condition can be managed to allow him to pitch effectively in the playoffs. If unable to consistently perform as a pitcher, Do the Dodgers receive value from his other contributions?
Since Judge’s absence, the Yankees have struggled, showing Ohtani’s value as a consistent performer despite pitching limitations. While the Dodgers remain optimistic, critics question the long-term value of Ohtani’s contract without his pitching capabilities. His contributions within two seasons, including two World Series titles, already showcase significant returns on their investment.