Shohei Ohtani won’t pitch for the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2014 as he works his way back from elbow surgery. However, the two-time AL MVP is under consideration to play a position that we haven’t really seen during his major league career.
Ohtani underwent elbow surgery late in the 2023 MLB season after suffering a UCL sprain in his pitching elbow. The procedure, the second on his elbow, required surgery that won’t allow him to take the mound for the Dodgers in 2024., While Los Angeles is plenty comfortable only receiving his contributions at the plate, it is exploring some ways to get even more value out of the record-breaking contract.
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During an appearance on The Dan Patrick Show, Dodgers’ manager Dave Roberts made it clear that Ohtani would spend the majority of the 2024 season as designated hitter. While it will be his primary role next year, it might not be the only role he plays at Dodgers Stadium.
Roberts shared that Ohtani is receptive to the idea of playing the corner outfield late in the 2024 MLB season. While the medical staff would need to clear Ohtani to field the position and make throws, it is something both the player and staff are open to.
“There was even a little talk with Shohei 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? [Ohtani] said, ‘If it works and my arm feels OK, I’m open to it.’ So we’ll see, but we’ve got a lot of time before we get to that point.”
Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts on possibly trying Shohei Ohtani in the OF (H/T MLB.com)
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It’s worth noting Ohtani has minimal experience playing the outfield in MLB. He last attempted it in 2021, playing the corner outfield for 8.1 innings across even games. However, the Los Angeles Angels limited him to just one-inning runs in the corner outfield.
However, Ohtani did play the outfield a little more often in Japan and he showed off impressive arm strength. He’s also one of the best athletes in baseball, which would provide him with the physical skills needed to be a quality corner outfielder. While it still feels unlikely we’ll see it happen in 2024, it’s clear the Dodgers will keep it in mind for next season.
