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Dodgers subtle move signals something is wrong with Shohei Ohtani
TL;DR
The Dodgers' recent decision to have Shohei Ohtani pitch without hitting raises concerns about his health. This deviation from his typical dual-role performance suggests something may be wrong with him.
Key points
- Dodgers have limited Ohtani to pitching only
- This is unusual for Ohtani, who typically hits and pitches
- Concerns about Ohtani's health are rising
Los Angeles DodgersShohei Ohtani
Dodgers subtle move signals something is wrong with Shohei Ohtani originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
It doesn't benefit the Los Angeles Dodgers in any way to come out and say it.
But right now, at least relative to the past, something must be a bit wrong with Shohei Ohtani.
Ohtani again on Tuesday will just pitch and not hit, and while that would be normal for anyone else in baseball, it isn't normal for him.
In recent years, Ohtani has been in the batting order on the days he pitches. It's two-way mastery to the fullest extent.
But this season, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has taken Ohtani's bat out of the lineup more often than not when he starts on the mound.
Maybe the most concerning part here is that Roberts originally planned on Ohtani hitting Tuesday. Only after his Monday night showing did Roberts change his mind.
Ohtani is 0-for-17 at the plate in his last five games, so that's not an ideal selling point.
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He also didn't have encouraging body language on Monday, according to Bill Blunkett of the Orange County Register.
Q&A
Why is Shohei Ohtani only pitching and not hitting?
Shohei Ohtani is currently only pitching due to potential health concerns, which is unusual for him as he typically plays both roles.
What does the Dodgers' decision about Ohtani indicate?
The Dodgers' choice to limit Ohtani's role suggests that there may be underlying issues affecting his performance.
How does Shohei Ohtani's situation affect the Dodgers' season?
Ohtani's health and performance are crucial for the Dodgers, and any issues could significantly impact their success this season.
