Ohtani to begin throwing program soon. Roberts hints Dodgers star might play in the field
Shohei Ohtani may be more than just a designated hitter this season, after all
SEOUL, South Korea (AP) — Shohei Ohtani may be more than just a designated hitter this season, after all.
Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said Monday that Ohtani — ruled out this year as a pitcher after his second surgery on his right elbow — will soon start a throwing program that might allow him to play in the field this season.
“Shohei this year is primarily going to be the designated hitter,” Roberts said. "Once we get back to the States, he is going to start his throwing program, which he hasn’t started yet, We’ll see how that progression goes. If his arm is healthy enough, we’ll have that conversation in the field. I do know he’s not going to pitch this year.”
It's the first sign that Ohtani may do more than just DH after signing a $700 million, 10-year contract with the Dodgers. Of course, when he might play in the field is unclear — or if it happens at all.
