Shohei Ohtani's Pitching Role Expands as Dodgers Adjust Plans

Shohei Ohtani's role for the Dodgers in the upcoming postseason may evolve from being an opener to a full-fledged starter. This change comes as the team reveals a new timeline for his pitching recovery.

Ohtani's recent performance in a simulated game, where he threw 30 pitches, has set the stage for a potential bullpen session. Depending on his recovery, he could pitch in a game as soon as Sunday in Detroit. The Dodgers anticipate that Ohtani could start four to five games before the regular season concludes, with an initial expectation of pitching one inning in his first game.

This adjustment is particularly significant given the Dodgers' current challenges, including injuries to center fielder Andy Pages and closer Edwin Diaz. Pages is expected to miss several weeks, while Diaz is on the injured list due to neck inflammation. Ohtani's return could alleviate some pressure on the bullpen, as the Dodgers plan to utilize a four-man rotation in the playoffs, allowing for strategic adjustments in their pitching lineup.