They propose a new role for Shohei Ohtani in the Los Angeles Dodgers pitching staff as he did with Japan in the 2023 World Baseball Classic.
Two experts who closely cover the Blues in MLB proposed a new role for the Japanese two-way phenomenon in the team’s pitching staff.
Shohei Ohtani’s new pitching role with the Los Angeles Dodgers proposed like with Japan in the 2023 World Baseball Classic
For Nomar Garciaparra, former Dodger, MLB legend and now analyst: “The absence of an absolute closer is putting enormous pressure on the entire bullpen and the batting lineup. There are no safe leads for the Dodgers.”
Jerry Hairston Jr., who is an insider, agreed with Nomar Garciaparra and said: “Once the postseason starts, Shohei Ohtani should take over as closer. Please correct me if I’m wrong.”
Could Shohei Ohtani fit into a closer role?
Los Angeles Dodgers pitching coach Mike Prior said: “Basically, he starts and can be a designated hitter, or you’re bringing him in hypothetically in more of a situation at the end of the game and you know that hopefully the game is not continuing.”
With Japan in the 2023 World Baseball Classic
The last memory of Shohei Ohtani as a closer was in the final of the World Baseball Classic when he closed the final game against the United States by striking out none other than Mike Trout, his then teammate with the Los Angeles Angels, so that Japan was crowned in the tournament and for the third time in its history in the competition.
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