The Los Angeles Dodgers are keeping their options open with a potential shift to a six-man rotation, a move that could happen seamlessly thanks to their deep pitching staff. Despite an off day on Thursday, the Dodgers are making some strategic adjustments, with manager Dave Roberts confirming that Shohei Ohtani is set to face the Toronto Blue Jays on April 8.
This adjustment means Ohtani will enjoy seven days of rest between starts, a decision reflecting the Dodgers' cautious approach with their two-way superstar. While Ohtani has fewer restrictions this season, Roberts describes their strategy as “fluid,” ensuring they maximize his impact while safeguarding his health.
Ohtani impressed in his season debut against the Cleveland Guardians, delivering six strong innings and throwing 87 pitches, which aligns with the team's expectations. The Dodgers remain committed to protecting their prized asset, understanding the importance of balancing workload with longevity.
Ohtani is on a mission this year, aiming to become the first Japanese-born Cy Young Award winner. Yet, he’s made it clear that the team's success comes first, always willing to follow the training staff's guidance to minimize injury risks.
The challenge for Ohtani is staying healthy enough to make the necessary starts and accumulate innings. In 2022, he pitched a career-high 166 innings, a significant milestone considering his previous seasons were hampered by injuries.
Clayton Kershaw, now an NBC analyst, has high hopes for Ohtani, believing he could make MLB history. “I’m excited to see a full year of him on the mound as well as at the plate,” Kershaw remarked.
“It would be pretty cool to see a Cy Young, MVP, and World Series in one year. There’s a very real possibility he could do that.”
Achieving this feat would place Ohtani alongside legends like Sandy Koufax and Willie Hernández, the only players to win a Cy Young Award, MVP, and World Series title in the same season. If Ohtani continues on this trajectory, he might just redefine what's possible in the game.