Dodgers’ Shohei Ohtani May Only Pitch a Few More Years, Says MLB Insider
With a rash of perpetual injuries to the pitching staff, and most specifically the starters, the Los Angeles Dodgers are eagerly awaiting the mound debut of Shohei Ohtani.
Ohtani’s recovery from elbow surgery has been cautious and methodical. It’s to be expected considering the money invested in him courtesy of the 10-year deal worth $700 million he signed last year.
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Some have theorized that Ohtani’s value may best be utilized solely as a hitter.
While that’s up for debate, MLB pundit Bob Nightengale offered a very interesting take on the iconic ballplayer.
“I’d be more curious to see what happens after next year,” Nightengale told Dodgers Nation’s Doug McKain. “I think he’ll be in the rotation again in 2026, then we’ll see what happens. I think his sheer love is just as a hitter. So it’ll be fascinating in a couple years if he gives up pitching, what do you do? Do they put him in the outfield? Obviously, a great athlete, probably would be a waste as a full-time DH since his athleticism is so good.”
Ohtani did spend some time as an outfielder in Japan before coming across the Pacific to the United States. Nightengale believes that could be an avenue worth pursuing, as well as one other possible position down the line.
“And if he’s not in the outfield, you can certainly put him at first base when Freddie Freeman retires, something like that.”
Ultimately, as many theorize, Nightengale belives that Ohtani’s days as a starting pitcher truly could be numbered given how lethal he is at the plate.
“I think one more for sure, after this. I think 2026 — we’ll see what happens if there’s a work stoppage or anything like that in 2027 — but I think that’s it. I think he pitches because he knows he can do it, fun novelty and stuff, but I think his heart and soul is really into hitting.”
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Photo Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
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