Dodgers Could Use Shohei Ohtani as Closer in Playoffs, Says Dave Roberts

"Given the rules that wouldn't allow Ohtani to be used as a designated hitter, reliever, and upon exiting the mound, going back to being a DH, there is a lot to consider if Ohtani were to pitch in a game he isn't starting. His talents at the plate, which will almost certainly win him a fourth MVP award, are too valuable to lose later in the game."

"A situation that Ohtani would enter the game in relief would have to either be one where his spot in the batting order wouldn't come around again, or if he is pitching in the bottom of the ninth. Any other relief appearance knowing that Ohtani's spot in the order is due would have to knowingly be skipped if he is on the mound and then taken out of the game."

The Dodgers are considering using Shohei Ohtani in relief late in the season due to bullpen uncertainty. Manager Dave Roberts confirmed the option remains under consideration and said Ohtani would be open to any role, though no decision has been made. Rules restrict a player from serving as DH and then returning to DH after pitching, creating strategic limits on relief appearances. Any relief usage would require that Ohtani's spot in the batting order not come up again or occur in the bottom of the ninth. Ohtani has a 3.75 ERA in 36 innings with 49 strikeouts and eight walks, while leading the NL in slugging (.612) and OPS (1.002), and leading MLB in runs (128).

Read at Dodgers Nation