Dodgers make shocking Ohtani decision Wednesday night vs Mets
The Los Angeles Dodgers made one of the most surprising decisions of the 2026 season—and it involves the most unique player in baseball. For the first time since joining the Dodgers, Shohei Ohtani took the mound as a starting pitcher… without being in the lineup as a hitter. Yes, you read that right.
MORE: MLB Power Rankings, ranking all 30 teams from worst to first Breaking the Ohtani Blueprint May 21, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter Shohei Ohtani (17) during the first inning against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images Ohtani’s value has always been built on doing both. Pitch.
Hit. Dominate. That’s what makes him different—not just from today’s players, but from anyone in modern baseball history.
So to see him start a game strictly as a pitcher, without his bat in the lineup, is a major departure from the formula that made him a global superstar. Why Would the Dodgers Do This? At first glance, it feels almost wrong.
But there’s logic behind it. The Dodgers are likely prioritizing health and workload management, especially given Ohtani’s recent pitching history and the long-term investment they’ve made in him. Limiting his offensive duties on pitching days could be a way to preserve his arm and keep him effective deeper into the season.