Dave Roberts Reveals Shohei Ohtani’s Two-Way Status During Pitching Starts
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts spoke about the team's plan for Shohei Ohtani's hitting availability on days when he pitches.
Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts spoke about the team’s plan for Shohei Ohtani’s hitting availability on days when he pitches. Ohtani is a complete phenomenon as a playe r, able to hit and pitch at an elite level. The Dodgers get to see him do both for a full season in 2026, as long as he stays healthy throughout the season.
Los Angeles got a good taste of his abilities in 2025, but he did not step on the mound until halfway through the season. Even when he did pitch, his outings were short as he built himself up. During the 2026 preseason, Ohtani has been fully healthy for the first time as a Dodger, starting the year on a good note with bullpen sessions and batting practice.
Mar 23, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter Shohei Ohtani (17) hits a double during the third inning against the Los Angeles Angels at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images Ohtani has made some appearances in Spring Training, both as a hitter and pitcher. He has one start heading into Tuesday, when he will make his second appearance, a final tuneup before the season starts.
He pitched 4. 1 innings, totaling four strikeouts, and his command looked sharp right off the bat. Ohtani is aiming to win a Cy Young Award, and this season, with a ton of MLB experience, he is more poised than ever to achieve it.