According to Bob Nightengale of USA Today, Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani might be willing to give up pitching if the team asks him to. This revelation is so profound, that according to betting resource Strafe, some sportsbooks have taken futures bets on the possibility.
Either way, based on insights from two individuals familiar with Ohtani’s thinking indicate that Ohtani would likely be amenable to focusing solely on hitting and being an everyday outfielder if the Dodgers requested it.
Ohtani, renowned for his exceptional hitting abilities, is currently a triple-crown threat. He is leading the league in batting average, home runs, and RBIs this season and is also the frontrunner for the National League MVP. He is stealing bases at the highest pace of his career. Despite his prowess on the mound, those close to him suggest that his passion lies more with hitting than pitching.
Several interesting points arise from this situation:
- Passion for Pitching: It has not been widely known that Ohtani might not be as passionate about pitching as he is about hitting. Although he has excelled in both, it appears that the rigors of pitching, especially the rehabilitation process following injuries, might be a significant factor.
- Transition to Outfield: Ohtani’s experience in the outfield is limited, having appeared in only seven outfield games since joining the Major Leagues in 2018. His ability to transition to an everyday outfielder role remains to be determined, especially as he approaches his 30th birthday. However, his athleticism suggests he could adapt and make a defensive impact.
- Impact on Contract: Ohtani’s 10-year, $700 million contract with the Dodgers was based on his dual-threat capability as a hitter and a pitcher. Even if he were to give up pitching, his exceptional hitting skills and marketability would likely justify the investment. His current performance, hitting .352 with 11 home runs, has already added significant value to the Dodgers, both on and off the field.
Can Still Hit Despite Tommy John Surgery
Shohei Ohtani will not pitch this season due to his recovery from Tommy John surgery, but he remains a potent force at the plate. Here’s why he is still able to hit despite undergoing major elbow surgery:
- Nature of the Injury and Surgery: Ohtani injured his ulnar collateral ligament (UCL), necessitating Tommy John surgery in September 2023. Typically, pitchers who undergo this surgery require at least a full year of recovery, focusing on rehabbing the elbow to handle the stresses of pitching.
- Differences in Recovery for Hitters: Hitters, including notable examples like Bryce Harper, often recover quicker from UCL injuries. This is because hitting does not place the same stress on the elbow ligament as pitching does. For players like Ohtani, who throws right-handed but bats left-handed, the injured right arm leads the swing, a motion less taxing on the elbow.
- Impact on Hitting Performance: Ohtani has shown that his hitting remains unaffected by the surgery. In his first spring training game, his performance indicated that he could remain a formidable presence in the batter’s box. The surgery has not compromised his swing mechanics and ability to generate power.
- Contract and Marketability: Despite his injury, the Dodgers signed Ohtani to a record-breaking contract, recognizing his unparalleled talent and global appeal. Even if he cannot pitch in the immediate future, his hitting prowess and marketability provide immense value to the team. His past performance, including a .304 batting average, 44 home runs, and 95 RBIs in 2023, underscores his worth. Moreover, his global fanbase, particularly in Japan, enhances the Dodgers’ brand and revenue opportunities.
Shohei Ohtani’s unique combination of skills and global appeal ensures that he remains a pivotal figure in Major League Baseball, whether as a two-way player or focusing solely on hitting. His ability to adapt and excel captivates fans and elevates the sport’s profile worldwide.