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

If the Dodgers force a Game 7, manager Dave Roberts might deploy Shohei Ohtani in unexpected roles. Roberts is open to using Ohtani as an opener or even as an outfielder if Los Angeles extends the World Series against Toronto.

Ohtani pitched 93 pitches in the Dodgers' 6-2 loss in Game 4 and could be available as a reliever in the upcoming games in Toronto. However, if he enters as a reliever after starting as the designated hitter, the Dodgers would lose their DH spot. He can maintain the DH position if he starts the game as a pitcher.

“I think we would consider everything,” Roberts said Thursday, a day before Game 6. “It’s more of just kind of doing whatever we can to get through tomorrow and then pick up the pieces and then see what’s the best way to attack a potential Game 7. So everything should be on the table and will be, for sure.”

Roberts planned to discuss these options with Ohtani later on Thursday.

Ohtani has never relieved in Major League Baseball, though he made a few relief appearances early in his career with Japan's Pacific League team Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters, mostly as a rookie in 2013. He also closed out Japan’s win in the 2023 World Baseball Classic final by striking out Mike Trout for the final out.

Ohtani was seen taking on-field batting practice Thursday, something he rarely does, hitting balls off a hotel behind center field.

Summary: Shohei Ohtani’s role in a potential Game 7 remains flexible, with Dodgers manager Dave Roberts considering all options to maximize his unique two-way talent.

FOX Sports — 2025-10-31

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

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