The Los Angeles Dodgers are set to let superstar Shohei Ohtani start in Game 7 of the World Series against the Toronto Blue Jays, a decision influenced by MLB’s recent Rule 5.11(b). This rule creates a unique scenario for the Dodgers as they prepare for Saturday’s game, which will be aired on FOX at 8 p.m. ET.
This specific rule permits starting pitchers to continue batting even after they’re taken off the mound, provided they are included in the batting lineup. So, Ohtani can stay in the game regardless of whether he is removed from his pitching role.
However, if Ohtani begins as the team’s designated hitter and then transitions to a relief pitcher, the risk is that his powerful batting might leave the lineup as soon as he steps off the pitcher’s mound.
I mean, once he pitches, staying in the game would mean he would have to play a position he hasn’t often filled throughout his career. Ohtani has only pitched 8 1/3 innings in total and hasn’t done so since 2021, which adds to the challenge.
Recognizing this, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has chosen to start Ohtani as a pitcher while allowing him to keep hitting, no matter how long he lasts on the mound. Ohtani has had a three-day rest, so it’s a bit uncertain how deep into the game he can actually pitch.
On the other hand, Blue Jays manager John Schneider didn’t seem to think as much about this aspect; Max Scherzer was pegged as the starter well before the lineup was revealed.
