Outfielder? Opener? Shohei Ohtani's Game 7 Role is Wide Open | FOX Sports

Shohei Ohtani’s Uncertain Role in Potential Game 7

If the Dodgers extend the World Series to a Game 7, manager Dave Roberts may use Shohei Ohtani in unexpected ways. Roberts is open to deploying Ohtani as a pitcher opener or even as an outfielder if Los Angeles forces the decisive game against Toronto.

Pitching and Hitting Considerations

Ohtani threw 93 pitches in the Dodgers' 6-2 loss in Game 4 and could be available to pitch in relief during the upcoming games in Toronto. However, his use as a reliever after starting as a designated hitter would cause the Dodgers to lose their DH spot, unless he also started as the pitcher and remained in the game as DH.

“I think we would consider everything,” Roberts said on Thursday before Game 6. “It’s more of just kind of doing whatever we can to get through tomorrow and then pick up the pieces and then see what’s the best way to attack a potential Game 7. So everything should be on the table and will be, for sure.”

The Dodgers manager planned to discuss these options with Ohtani later that day.

Ohtani’s Experience and Recent Activity

Ohtani has never pitched in relief during his Major League Baseball career but made a few relief appearances as a rookie in 2013 with Japan's Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters. Notably, he closed out Japan’s win in the 2023 World Baseball Classic final by striking out Mike Trout.

Unusually, Ohtani took batting practice on the field Thursday, practicing hitting outside the hotel beyond center field.

Author’s Summary

Shohei Ohtani’s role in a possible Game 7 remains flexible, with the Dodgers weighing unconventional pitching and fielding strategies to maximize his two-way talents.

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FOX Sports FOX Sports — 2025-10-31

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