Dodgers GM provides update on Shohei Ohtani that puts pitching situation into context

With Shohei Ohtani nearing a return to the mound, it's fueled speculation regarding his outlook as a the playoffs come into focus. It seems clear that the Los Angeles Dodgers are going to have a handful of established starting pitchers coming out of the bullpen during the postseason, but is there a scenario that exists where Ohtani could be used as a high-leverage arm at the end of the games?

Ohtani was famously used as a closer during his last appearance in the World Baseball Classic, and given the uncertainty surrounding Edwin Diaz's status, it makes sense why there would be some conversation about the possibility.

As appealing as that idea may be, Dodgers general manager Brandon Gomes may have just thrown cold water on that scenario. He was recently a guest on MLB Now, and naturally, was asked about Ohtani's outlook as a pitcher.

Gomes all but confirmed that Ohtani will be used as the front-end of games during the playoffs, considering it allows for easier strategy with him also continuing to serve as the team's designated hitter.

Dodgers GM's Shohei Ohtani update explains complicated pitching situation

It's an important reminder that Dodgers fans will need to keep in mind once October rolls around. If Ohtani starts a game as LA's designated hitter before ultimately entering the game as a relief pitcher, the Dodgers would be sacrificing the DH spot in their lineup. In other words, Ohtani would be pulled from the game entirely after his relief appearance is over.

That is where the risk lies for the Dodgers. Even if Ohtani were to be used as a closer, on the chance that he blows a save, there's the potential of him not having an at-bat of consequence in extra innings because LA made a change.

The workaround would be moving Ohtani to a defensive position, but that would carry inherent risks, considering it's something he hasn't done since 2021 when he appeared in a handful of games as an outfielder with the Los Angeles Angels.

In other words, the best version of the Dodgers has Ohtani being used as a pitcher at the start of games. That would allow them to take advantage of the Ohtani as it's designed and eliminate the risk of being left holding the short end of the stick in the event that he faltered as a relief pitcher.

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