Key Highlights
- Shohei Ohtani will start Game 7 of the World Series for the Los Angeles Dodgers.
- The rule allowing Ohtani to continue hitting after pitching is unique to him and created by MLB.
- Ohtani’s decision affects the team’s strategy, as he can stay in the game even if used as a relief pitcher.
- Dodgers manager Dave Roberts will start Ohtani on the mound to keep his bat in play.
Unique MLB Rule for Shohei Ohtani
The Los Angeles Dodgers are set to face a unique challenge as they prepare for Game 7 of the World Series against the Toronto Blue Jays. The key to this situation is Shohei Ohtani, who will start on the mound despite MLB creating a rule specifically for him that allows him to continue hitting even if he’s taken off the mound.
This rule, Rule 5.11(b), was implemented by Major League Baseball (MLB) to accommodate the star pitcher and designated hitter. The rule states that if Ohtani is in the batting lineup, he can remain a part of the game as long as he steps on the mound initially. This creates an unusual scenario where Ohtani could potentially stay involved throughout the game both as a starting pitcher and a relief pitcher.
Strategic Implications for the Dodgers
The strategic implications are significant for the Los Angeles Dodgers, who have been granted this unique flexibility with Ohtani. Manager Dave Roberts will likely start him on the mound to ensure he can continue hitting even if his pitching stint is short-lived or if he needs to be removed from the game due to a strategic decision.
The team must navigate the delicate balance of Ohtani’s dual roles, as his powerful bat could be crucial in critical moments. If Roberts decides to bring him back into the game as a relief pitcher after pitching, the Dodgers would risk losing that valuable offensive weapon.
The only way to keep Ohtani’s bat in play is for him to step onto the field and possibly play the outfield or infield, something he has not done frequently.
Since Ohtani has only played the field 8 1/3 innings in his career and last did so in 2021, his limited experience in these roles adds an extra layer of complexity to the decision-making process. This unique situation highlights the innovative nature of MLB’s rulemaking and its impact on the game.
Impact on Game Strategy
The strategy for Game 7 will revolve around how long Ohtani pitches and whether he is brought back as a relief pitcher. The Blue Jays, managed by John Schneider, have not had to deal with this complexity as they are starting their designated hitter, Max Scherzer.
The game will air exclusively on FOX at 8 p.m. ET and is set for a crucial showdown between the Dodgers and Blue Jays.
The unique rule surrounding Ohtani adds an element of unpredictability to the game, as his presence could shift from pitcher to hitter seamlessly without affecting the team’s batting order.
The outcome of this game will not only determine the winner of Game 7 but also set the stage for the remainder of the World Series. The strategic decisions made by both managers in managing Ohtani’s role will be pivotal in shaping the course of the series.
Conclusion
The unique rule created for Shohei Ohtani presents a strategic dilemma for the Los Angeles Dodgers as they prepare for Game 7 against the Toronto Blue Jays. The flexibility it provides could prove crucial, with the team aiming to leverage every advantage possible in this high-stakes game.
As both teams gear up for what promises to be an exciting and unpredictable matchup, the rule surrounding Ohtani will undoubtedly play a significant role in determining the outcome of Game 7. Fans can expect to witness one of the most innovative aspects of baseball in action as the world’s biggest sporting event unfolds.
