Dodgers News: Ohtani Will Prepare for Availability in Bullpen
After Ohtani's Game Four efforts, he'll now work toward a bullpen appearance if needed for the remainder of the World Series
LOS ANGELES, CA—After a thrilling 18-inning walk-off win in Game Three, the Los Angeles Dodgers went out quietly in Game Four, allowing the Toronto Blue Jays to not only tie the series, but force a Game Six, which will be played in Canada.
Although Ohtani was credited with the loss, he looked excellent through six innings. The only run the Jays needed was a two-run homer by Vladimir Guerrero Jr., which sealed their win.
Although Dodgers manager aimed to extend Ohtani’s outing to seven innings, he allowed consecutive hits in the top of the inning, which prompted the manager to bring in a reliever.
As expected, both runners would score, as the Jays added four runs in the inning, causing Ohtani’s line to suffer.
But, after the game, things get interesting for the World Series moving forward.
According to Dylan Hernández of the Los Angeles Times, Ohtani stated during his postgame interview that, moving forward, he would be available out of the bullpen for the next three games.
“Of course, I’d like to prepare to be available for every game in case I’m needed,” Ohtani said in Japanese to the Times.
If that occurs, it would mark Ohtani’s first appearance from the bullpen in his Major League career. However, his performance in the 2023 World Baseball Classic provides a useful comparison for understanding him in that role or situation.
Where it gets complicated for the Dodgers is with the two-way player rule (Ohtani rule) as once Ohtani entered the game in relief, the team would forfeit the designated hitter spot in the lineup, and Ohtani would have to remain in the game at a position he he were to be removed from the mound.
The Dodgers’ rotation is set for the next three games, with left-hander Blake Snell taking the mound tonight for Game Five, right-hander Yoshinobu Yamamoto going in Game Six, and Tyler Glasnow in a potential Game Seven.
Ohtani was part of the Dodgers’ potential Game Seven plans for the National League Championship Series against the Milwaukee Brewers, but those plans never had to be used, as the team won the series with a four-game sweep.
Have you subscribed to the Bleed Los Podcast YouTube channel? Be sure to ring the notification bell to watch player interviews, participate in shows & promotions, and stay up to date on all Dodgers news and rumors!
