Dodgers’ Shohei Ohtani May Only Pitch a Few More Years, Says MLB Insider

With a rash of perpetual accidents to the pitching workers, and most particularly the starters, the Los Angeles Dodgers are eagerly awaiting the mound debut of Shohei Ohtani.

Ohtani’s restoration from elbow surgical procedure has been cautious and methodical. It’s to be anticipated contemplating the cash invested in him courtesy of the 10-year deal value $700 million he signed final yr.

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Some have theorized that Ohtani’s worth might greatest be utilized solely as a hitter.

Whereas that’s up for debate, MLB pundit Bob Nightengale provided a really fascinating tackle the enduring ballplayer.

“I’d be extra curious to see what occurs after subsequent yr,” Nightengale advised Dodgers Nation’s Doug McKain. “I feel he’ll be within the rotation once more in 2026, then we’ll see what occurs. I feel his sheer love is simply as a hitter. So it’ll be fascinating in a pair years if he offers up pitching, what do you do? Do they put him within the outfield? Clearly, an amazing athlete, most likely can be a waste as a full-time DH since his athleticism is so good.”

Ohtani did spend a while as an outfielder in Japan earlier than coming throughout the Pacific to the USA. Nightengale believes that may very well be an avenue value pursuing, in addition to one different doable place down the road.

“And if he’s not within the outfield, you possibly can actually put him at first base when Freddie Freeman retires, one thing like that.”

In the end, as many theorize, Nightengale belives that Ohtani’s days as a beginning pitcher really may very well be numbered given how deadly he’s on the plate.

“I feel another for positive, after this. I feel 2026 — we’ll see what occurs if there’s a piece stoppage or something like that in 2027 — however I feel that’s it. I feel he pitches as a result of he is aware of he can do it, enjoyable novelty and stuff, however I feel his coronary heart and soul is admittedly into hitting.”

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Picture Credit score: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Pictures

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