The Los Angeles Dodgers have consistently maintained Shohei Ohtani will not pitch during the 2024 season, but such has not been the case when it comes to the two-way superstar potentially playing the field late in the year.
Whether that comes to fruition won’t be known for several months but Ohtani is scheduled to start a throwing program once the Dodgers return from the Seoul Series.
“We’ll see how that progression goes. If his arm is healthy enough, we’ll have that conversation about the field,” manager Dave Roberts said. “I do know he’s not going to pitch this year. Right now, our only focus is him being the designated hitter.”
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Ohani’s locker at Camelback Ranch during Spring Training included both a first base mitt and outfielder’s glove. The Dodgers were said to be open to the 29-year-old potentially working out as a position player if his rehab progression ultimately allowed for it.
During a December appearance on “The Dan Patrick Show,” Roberts relayed that Ohtani expressed a willingness to play left field if his surgically-repaired right elbow was not going to be compromised.
But when Ohtani’s gloves were pointed out to Roberts last month, he said the only plan was to have him be the Dodgers’ designated hitter.
Ohtani last played the field during the 2021 season, logging 7.1 innings in right field and one in left field.
Dr. Neal ElAttrache suggested Shohei Ohtani could pitch against hitters late in 2024, is that possible
“I think with Shohei, anything is possible. But I haven’t heard that one. If that’s what Dr. ElAttrache said, he’s the expert.”
Shohei Ohtani possibly pitching in 2024
In an interview with the Associated Press Dr. Neal ElAttrache, who performed Ohtani’s right elbow surgery, said there was a plan for him to pitch against batters in a simulated environment late in September.
“I think with Shohei, anything is possible,” Roberts said. “But I haven’t heard that one. If that’s what Dr. ElAttrache said, he’s the expert.”
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