The most famous two-way player in baseball will have his workload somewhat limited going forward. Los Angeles Dodgers Shohei Ohtani is pitching Tuesday night, but he is not in the lineup, and it will be that way occasionally, according to Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic. Manager Dave Roberts said that it’s the best way to ensure that Ohtani doesn’t miss a start in the rotation.
New Plan: Shohei Ohtani Won’t Always Hit on Days He is Pitching
Communication is Key
The reigning National League Most Valuable Player was reportedly “fine” with this decision after being informed about it before Tuesday’s game against the Miami Marlins. Ohtani will resume batting leadoff in the concluding game of the homestead on Wednesday afternoon. This is the second time this season that Ohtani will only pitch.
One thing Dave Roberts made clear today: Shohei Ohtani’s goal is to make every turn through the rotation. So in lieu of him skipping a start here and there, having him only pitch on some days is a way of reducing his workload. https://t.co/WTPYdwX3IR
— Fabian Ardaya (@FabianArdaya) April 28, 2026
The Sixth Man
Another way the Dodgers are limiting the workload of the staff is with a six-man rotation this season. This practice is already used in Japan, and it should be no surprise that with three starters from the “Land of the Rising Sun,” Los Angeles would choose to implement it. Ironically, Ohtani will be pitching on five days rest tonight. The unicorn of baseball usually pitches every sixth day. However, there are no limitations on him tonight.
Ace of the Staff?
Ohtani anchors a staff that may be the best in the majors. The rotation’s combined ERA is well below 3.00, even with the concern over Roki Sasaki and his six-plus ERA being cause for concern. For his part, Ohtani holds an ERA below 1.00. It resides at 0.39 to be exact. Superman has proven to be human with the bat early this season. Ohtani’s strikeouts have been up and his batting average down. There are signs that he is waking up offensively. In the last three games, Ohtani is 7-for-11. The Dodgers hope that this hot streak is a precursor of things to come. Whatever happens for the rest of the season, Los Angeles is betting that taking precautions now will pay dividends in October.
Main Photo Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
