Shohei Ohtani’s World Series Journey with Dodgers: Why He Won’t Pitch in 2024

Shohei Ohtani’s Historic First World Series

Shohei Ohtani, arguably the most celebrated two-way player in baseball history, is making his World Series debut in 2024, his first season with the Los Angeles Dodgers. After six years with the Los Angeles Angels without a postseason appearance, Ohtani’s move to the Dodgers has paid off, as the team secured a spot in the Fall Classic against the New York Yankees. Despite the excitement, fans won’t see Ohtani on the mound, which has been a major topic of discussion leading up to the series.

Ohtani’s 2023 Injury and Tommy John Surgery

Ohtani’s absence from the mound in the World Series is due to a significant elbow injury that required surgery in September 2023. This marked his second Tommy John surgery, a procedure that ended his pitching season but did not keep him from contributing as a designated hitter. Throughout the 2024 season, Ohtani’s bat was as dominant as ever, powering the Dodgers to their impressive postseason run. Despite fans’ hopes, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has firmly stated that Ohtani will not pitch in the 2024 World Series, due to his recovery timeline.

Manager Dave Roberts Sets Expectations

Dave Roberts, the Dodgers’ manager, addressed the media ahead of the World Series, quashing any speculation that Ohtani could make a surprise return as a pitcher. Despite earlier hints that there was a slim chance of Ohtani taking the mound, Roberts clarified that it was “impossible” for the star to pitch during the World Series. This decision is rooted in the Dodgers’ long-term plans for Ohtani, as they prioritize his health and future contributions both at the plate and on the mound. Roberts emphasized that Ohtani’s focus will remain on his offensive role.

Shohei Ohtani’s Impact as a Hitter

Although fans won’t witness Ohtani’s dominant pitching this postseason, his role as a hitter cannot be overlooked. Ohtani has been a critical part of the Dodgers’ offense throughout 2024, delivering clutch hits and maintaining a strong presence in the lineup. His ability to change games with his bat keeps him at the forefront of the Dodgers’ World Series strategy. Ohtani’s versatility and offensive firepower make him a player to watch, even if his arm isn’t in action this October.

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Looking Ahead: Ohtani’s Return to Two-Way Stardom

While Ohtani’s pitching absence in the 2024 World Series is a disappointment for many fans, the Dodgers have made it clear that they are investing in his long-term future. With rehabilitation from surgery on track, Ohtani is expected to return to his two-way form in 2025, once again dazzling fans on the mound and at the plate. For now, Ohtani and the Dodgers are focused on winning this year’s World Series, knowing that his return as a pitcher will add even more firepower to an already potent Dodgers team in the seasons to come.

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