Shohei Ohtani Open to Playing Left Field in 2024 for Dodgers, Says Dave Roberts

Dodgers two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani is reportedly open to adding another facet to his game — or re-adding it, that is. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts appeared on the Dan Patrick Show on Friday morning, and said Ohtani would be open to playing left field at some point in 2024 if his arm allows it.

Ohtani is recovering from a second major elbow surgery, and won’t be able to pitch until 2025.

“There was even a little talk with Shohei (Ohtani) about, come September, when he can pick up a baseball and throw, would he be open to taking some balls out there in left field? And he said, ‘If it works, and my arm feels okay, I’m open to it.'”

Via Dan Patrick Show

Ohtani has played the outfield before in his MLB career, albeit in limited time. In 2021, Ohtani made seven appearances in the Angels’ outfield — six in right field and one in left field. There’s obviously not much data you can get from 8.1 innings of defense, but at the very least, we know he can do it.

The Dodgers signed Ohtani to be their full-time designated hitter, and Roberts confirmed that he will be mainly DHing in 2024 as he recovers from his unnamed elbow surgery. But, come September, when he’s allowed to pick up a baseball, Roberts didn’t want to close the door on Ohtani potentially playing some outfield.

Do I think Ohtani will end up playing some outfield this season? No. Do I think it’s a good idea for Ohtani to play some outfield this season? Also no.

The Dodgers have zero reason to put him out there, and potentially risk injury to their $700 million man.

However, if there came a dire situation at some point where they needed someone to play outfield — similar to how J.D. Martinez played 12 innings of left field in 2023 — they know they have that option.

Photo Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports