Outfielder or Opener? Shohei Ohtani's Potential Game 7 Role
If the Los Angeles Dodgers manage to push the World Series against the Toronto Blue Jays to Game 7, manager Dave Roberts may deploy Shohei Ohtani in an unconventional way. Roberts indicated he is open to using Ohtani either as an opener or even as an outfielder to maximize flexibility.
Ohtani threw 93 pitches in Wednesday's 6-2 defeat in Game 4 and could still be available as a reliever over the weekend. However, inserting him as a reliever after serving as the designated hitter would cost the Dodgers their DH spot. Ohtani can maintain that position only if he starts the game as a pitcher.
“I think we would consider everything,” Roberts said Thursday, on the eve of Game 6. “It’s more about doing whatever we can to get through tomorrow, pick up the pieces, and find the best way to approach a possible Game 7. Everything should be on the table and will be, for sure.”
Roberts added that he intended to discuss all potential scenarios with Ohtani later that day.
Ohtani’s Rare Relief Record
Across his Major League career, Ohtani has never pitched out of the bullpen. During his time in Japan with the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters, he made a few relief appearances, primarily in his 2013 rookie season. Most memorably, he closed Japan’s victory in the 2023 World Baseball Classic final against the United States, striking out his then–Los Angeles Angels teammate Mike Trout to seal the championship.
On Thursday, Ohtani took on-field batting practice, something he seldom does. Witnesses said he launched several balls toward the hotel beyond center field, underscoring his continued readiness for any role Game 7 might demand.
Author’s Summary
Shohei Ohtani’s versatility could define the Dodgers’ World Series fate, as Dave Roberts weighs creative ways to deploy his two-way star in a possible Game 7 matchup against Toronto.