Dodgers' Dave Roberts warns unprecedented Shohei Ohtani move could seriously complicate playoffs

The Los Angeles Dodgers are gearing up for another postseason run — but this time, they have the opportunity to win back-to-back World Series championships. With October baseball approaching and every option on the table, the Dodgers have briefly considered a surprising move: shifting Shohei Ohtani to the bullpen.

“Dodgers pitching coach Mark Prior seemed bullish on the idea during his interview on the Dan Patrick Show this week, saying he could ‘absolutely’ see a scenario in which Ohtani pitches out of the bullpen during the postseason – but it would have to be a scenario in which he would be recording the final outs of the game,” Dodgers Way’s Emma Lingan wrote.

This week, manager Dave Roberts confirmed that the idea has indeed been discussed among the coaching staff.

“I know that we are going to be talking about it," Roberts said. "I think the one thing you can say, though, is that we use him once every seven days, eight days, nine days -- [11] days in between his last start -- so to think that now it's feasible for a guy that's just coming off what he's done last year, or didn't do last year, to then now put him in a role that's very, very unique -- because he's a very methodical, disciplined, routine-driven person. The pen is the complete opposite, right? You potentially could be taking on risk, and we've come this far, certainly with the kid gloves and managing."

A potential move to the bullpen would be a major shift for Ohtani — especially during the most critical stretch of the season. He is known for his discipline and strict routines, and there is virtually no routine in bullpen work.

If Ohtani does end up pitching in relief, there’s a significant caveat. While there's no doubt he has the talent to succeed in any role — after all, he’s widely regarded as the best player in baseball — making a sudden switch under postseason pressure could be a mental and physical challenge, even for someone of his caliber.

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Ohtani rarely struggles, but if this role change comes to pass, it could become one of the biggest storylines to watch as October unfolds.