The baseball world could witness one of the most anticipated matchups of the season: Shohei Ohtani versus Paul Skenes as starters
Although Ohtani was ruled out for the second game of the series against the Pittsburgh Pirates, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has yet to confirm who will start the final game on September 4.
An MVP vs Rookie of the Year showdown
If it happens, the matchup would pit the 2024 National League MVP against the Rookie of the Year. Skenes is scheduled to start for the Pirates, while Ohtani could be the surprise starter for the Dodgers. It would be the first time they have faced each other as starting pitchers.
History between them
Ohtani and Skenes have already faced each other as batter and pitcher three times. In the last duel, on April 25, 2025, Skenes struck out Ohtani with a spectacular curveball and pitched 6.1 scoreless innings. In 2024, Ohtani managed to hit a 415-foot home run off a 100.1 mph fastball from Skenes, although the rookie took the win.
The Dave Roberts factor
Roberts has been cautious with the use of Ohtani as a pitcher, especially after his recovery from surgery in 2023. Although Ohtani has made 11 starts in 2025, the manager has handled his workload carefully. In a recent interview, Roberts criticized a decision by Ohtani on the bases, demonstrating that control over his involvement is strict.
Skenes, Cy Young candidate
Paul Skenes arrives as one of the best pitchers of the season, with a 2.05 ERA, 187 strikeouts and an effectiveness that makes him a favorite for the Cy Young. His dominance on the mound has been consistent, and a duel against Ohtani would be the perfect scenario to consolidate his candidacy.
Ohtani vs Skenes: A matchup to watch
The possible showdown between Shohei Ohtani and Paul Skenes could become one of the most iconic moments of the 2025 season. It all depends on Dave Roberts, who has in his hands the opportunity to give baseball an elite duel between two figures who represent the present and future of the sport.
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