In a significant update that has left Los Angeles Dodgers fans disheartened, General Manager Brandon Gomez confirmed this week that Shohei Ohtani will not pitch during the postseason. Many fans had hoped to see the Japanese superstar contribute both as a pitcher and a hitter, especially after his remarkable performance during the regular season.
Ohtani’s dual-threat ability has made him an essential player for the Dodgers since joining the team, but his recent injury and subsequent Tommy John surgery have severely limited his availability on the mound. Despite earlier comments from Manager Dave Roberts, who hinted at a slim possibility of Ohtani returning to pitch, Gomez emphasized that the team never anticipated he would be ready for postseason play. Rushing Ohtani’s recovery would pose unnecessary risks for both him and the franchise.
While the door for Ohtani’s potential return to pitching had been left slightly ajar, the official word has dashed any lingering hopes. Nevertheless, Ohtani remains a formidable presence as a designated hitter, having posted one of the most impressive offensive seasons in baseball history. In 2024, he made history by becoming the first player to hit at least 50 home runs and steal 50 bases in a single season, breaking several franchise and league records along the way.
As the Dodgers gear up for their postseason debut, Ohtani’s contributions at the plate will be crucial. He will finally have his chance to compete in the playoffs after six seasons with the Los Angeles Angels, where he did not make a single postseason appearance. The Dodgers are set to face the winner of the Wild Card series between the Atlanta Braves and the San Diego Padres, and fans are eagerly anticipating how Ohtani will perform in this new chapter of his career, even without his pitching duties.
With the playoffs on the horizon, the question remains: Can Ohtani’s exceptional hitting lead the Dodgers to victory? Fans are encouraged to share their thoughts in the comments.