Shohei Ohtani’s brilliant career as a pitcher and hitter, which has cemented him as one of the most unique talents in baseball history, could be at a crossroads. A legendary pitching expert has issued a serious warning to the Los Angeles Dodgers about the risks of allowing the Japanese star to continue pitching, suggesting that his dual-threat role could become a “ticking time bomb” for his shoulder and, therefore, for his future in the sport.
Dr. Tom House, an iconic figure in MLB circles, recently expressed his concern. Although he has not worked directly with Ohtani, his observations from afar led him to a blunt conclusion: Ohtani should focus exclusively on hitting.
House’s warning
Journalist Pablo Torres asked House if Ohtani should continue pitching and his answer was a resounding “No”. “I think he’s a hitter. He’s proven everything he needs to as a pitcher. I think his value to the team is on the field every day,” said House, who has worked with the likes of Nolan Ryan and NFL legends such as Drew Brees and Tom Brady.
Dr. House’s concern lies in the combination of factors that Ohtani’s body faces. He stresses that weight training, which is excellent for hitting, is not ideal for pitching. In addition, the stress of throwing from a mound is a risk factor. “I don’t think his shoulders can handle the deceleration,” he said.
Ohtani’s future
Although Ohtani has made four relief appearances this season and there is speculation about his possible role as a closer, Dr. House’s voice joins that of many others in baseball who have suggested that the Japanese superstar’s future should be away from the mound.
The alternative that has been strongly suggested is a switch to the outfield. Ohtani’s powerful arm and exceptional physique would make him a serious Gold Glove contender on defense, a role that could preserve his long-term health and maintain his immense offensive value.
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