Dodgers GM drops major update on Shohei Ohtani's chances of pitching in post-season after clinching playoffs spot
After the Los Angeles Dodgers clinched a playoff spot on Friday, general manager Branon Gomes discussed the possibility of Shohei Ohtani taking to the mound in the postseason. Ohtani had Tommy John surgery in September 2023 and has not pitched since.
Ohtani sustained an injury to his Ulnar Collateral Ligament, which greatly affects throwing and pitching motions, but not that of swinging the bat. Hence, we have seen Ohtani playing as a designated hitter for the Dodgers all season, relieving him of any defensive duties and allowing him to focus solely on hitting.
However, as the Dodgers continue to deal with injuries to their pitching staff, there have been murmurs of Dave Roberts potentially turning to the Japanese international in the playoffs. Gomes addressed those rumors on Friday's edition of MLB Now.
"That feels very unlikely right now. I think he's just going through his throwing progression and he feels really good, which is important, but at this point, I don't see him pitching in the postseason," Gomes said. [0:05]
Shohei Ohtani makes history with first-ever 50-50 season as Dodgers clinch playoff spot
The Los Angeles Dodgers routed the Miami Marlins 20-4 on Friday, clinching a playoff berth in the process. 2024 is the 12th consecutive season where the Dodgers have made it to the playoffs, extending the record for the franchise.
Shohei Ohtani did typical Shohei Ohtani things as he hit three homers and stole two bases in the victory over the Marlins. He thus created history with the first 50-50 season in major league history and capped off a perfect day for the Dodgers.
The 30-year-old had six plate appearances in the game and recorded a hit every single time. For the 2024 season, Ohtani is batting .294, with 51 home runs and 120 RBIs.
Next, the Dodgers head back to LA as they invite the Colorado Rockies to Dodger Stadium, playing the first of three on Friday. Still looking to secure the NL West title, Shohei Ohtani and co. will be looking to carry forward their recent momentum. They will try to maintain their four-game lead over the San Diego Padres in the standings.