Shohei Ohtani has redefined what it means to be a two-way player in baseball, dazzling fans and analysts alike with his rare ability to dominate both on the mound and at the plate.
However, with his recent elbow injury and subsequent surgery, the Los Angeles Dodgers are facing a crucial decision. While Ohtani has expressed interest in returning to pitching, the team may be wise to keep his focus strictly on hitting—where he’s become one of the most dangerous offensive forces in the game.
From a value standpoint, Ohtani’s bat alone is worth protecting. In the 2023 season, even while dealing with physical setbacks, he led the majors in several key offensive categories, including home runs and OPS. His power, plate discipline, and consistency make him a generational talent at the plate.
Given the Dodgers’ investment—both financially and strategically—in Ohtani, preserving his health for long-term hitting productivity may outweigh the benefits of having him return to pitching.
Pitching again would mean risking reinjury, and potentially shortening his career. While fans and the media love the narrative of Ohtani as the modern-day Babe Ruth, the physical toll of being a two-way player is immense. With his second major elbow surgery behind him, asking him to resume full-time pitching duties may not be worth the risk.
The Dodgers, aiming for World Series contention, need Ohtani healthy and in the lineup every day, not sidelined by another long rehab.
Ultimately, the Dodgers have to prioritize the long game. Ohtani is already making history as a hitter, and there’s no doubt he can continue to do so for years if his workload is managed wisely.
By limiting or entirely eliminating his pitching role, the Dodgers could prolong his career and maximize their return on investment. It’s a tough call, but sometimes, even for a unicorn like Ohtani, doing less can lead to more.