Shohei Ohtani's Pitching: Will He Take the Mound Again?

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Shohei Otani's Pitching Prospects in the Regular and Postseason

Shohei Otani is expected to pitch again this season, potentially marking his return not only during the regular season but also in the postseason. The focus is on whether Otani will pitch before September 28th, which determines if his appearance is considered a regular season game or not. There's speculation that Otani may serve as a relief pitcher or an opener, roles that would be crucial as the playoffs approach.

The scenario is particularly noteworthy as comparisons are drawn with Clayton Kershaw's unexpected postseason appearances last year. Similar to Kershaw, Otani has demonstrated formidable skills earlier in the season, maintaining an ERA as low as 0.83 for an extended period. This performance builds a strong case for his inclusion in high-stakes games despite potential concerns about his readiness or the strategic preferences of his team, the Dodgers.

Otani's determination to pitch seems to be a significant factor pushing the decision. His proactive stance on returning to the mound signals a strong personal and professional commitment to his team's postseason ambitions. This might position him favorably in terms of trust and reliance compared to other pitchers like Glassnow, who hasn't pitched in a long time.

The discussion hinges on whether Otani will make a postseason start. The debate reflects on his earlier season performance and his capability to influence games in critical moments, suggesting that Otani could indeed be a more trustworthy option in the postseason lineup.