Series: managing Shohei Ohtani (the pitcher) won’t be easy

For the sake of argument, let's assume the Dodgers are in the playoffs. It's very likely… but not assured, the way they're playing.

Once the Dodgers get to October, they'll have to ask themselves a rather important question: how can they maximize Shohei Ohtani's talent on the mound and at bat?

Why do I say this? Because the fatigue of playing both roles has always existed, but never in the playoffs. Last year, Ohtani made the playoffs for the first time in his career, but he wasn't pitching.

The guys on the Foul Territory podcast were right to mention that Shohei Ohtani pitches one day and hits less well the next. That's something to bear in mind for the playoffs.

How would you handle Shohei Ohtani pitching in the playoffs, knowing his offensive numbers take a slight dip after he starts on the mound? pic.twitter.com/RMLsz4sMDo

– Foul Territory (@FoulTerritoryTV) September 8, 2025

The Dodgers want him on the mound – especially if there are injuries. The star also wants to pitch.

But is the club better off giving him fewer innings, to limit the fatigue of someone who does everything on a ball field? It's also a question that needs to be asked in order to maximize his offensive talent.

Last year, Ohtani seemed to lack gas in the playoffs. Will this be even more obvious now that he's pitching? Is he now used to the playoffs and will things be better for him?

Who knows.

Remember that the Dodgers don't really have the option of using Ohtani in relief, given the rules for a player like him. They do have the option of giving him fewer innings, but as a starter.

It's an issue in which the Dodgers can't really go wrong. After all, expectations are high in 2025, and that includes the $700-million man.

This content was created with the help of AI.