Outfielder? Opener? Shohei Ohtani's Game 7 Role is Wide Open

If the Dodgers manage to push the World Series against Toronto to Game 7, manager Dave Roberts may deploy Shohei Ohtani in unexpected roles. He is considering using Ohtani as an opener or even as an outfielder if the team reaches the decisive game.

The two-way star threw 93 pitches during Wednesday’s 6–2 loss in Game 4 and could be used as a reliever over the weekend in Toronto. However, starting him as a designated hitter and then moving him to the mound would cost the Dodgers their DH spot. Ohtani can keep hitting if he starts as both pitcher and DH.

“I think we would consider everything,” said Roberts on Thursday before Game 6. “It’s just about doing whatever we can to get through tomorrow, then pick up the pieces and decide the best way to attack a potential Game 7. Everything should be on the table.”

Roberts mentioned he would discuss those possibilities with Ohtani later in the day. Ohtani has never pitched in relief during his Major League career, though he made a few relief appearances in Japan with the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters during his 2013 rookie season. He famously closed out Japan’s win in the 2023 World Baseball Classic by striking out then-Los Angeles Angels teammate Mike Trout for the final out.

Ohtani also took batting practice on Thursday — a rare sight — launching several balls toward the hotel beyond center field.

Author’s summary:

Shohei Ohtani may be used creatively by Dodgers manager Dave Roberts in a potential Game 7, possibly as a pitcher, opener, or outfielder.

FOX Sports — 2025-10-31

Outfielder? Opener? Shohei Ohtani's Game 7 Role is Wide Open

Author’s summary:

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