Shohei Ohtani Faces No Pitching Limits for Dodgers in NLCS Game 4
Shohei Ohtani is set to start Game 4 of the National League Championship Series (NLCS) for the Los Angeles Dodgers. Manager Dave Roberts has removed any pitch count restrictions, focusing on Ohtani’s performance instead.
Shohei Ohtani’s Performance Progression
This season has marked Ohtani’s return to pitching after nearly two years of primarily hitting. He began the season with limited innings, throwing just one inning in his first game back on June 16. However, he worked up to a regular-season high of six innings in his final start of September.
- Regular-season high: 6 innings
- First postseason start: 6 innings against the Phillies
Roberts expressed confidence in Ohtani, noting, “Getting him through seven innings twice this year shows he’s ready.” He emphasized that Ohtani’s performance will guide pitch usage, not just a predetermined limit.
Ohtani’s Postseason Challenges
Despite a stellar regular season, Ohtani has struggled at the plate during the postseason. He is currently batting .147 over eight playoff games, with 15 strikeouts in 34 at-bats. However, his performance on the mound remains solid.
- Postseason strikeouts: 9 in 6 innings
- Runs allowed: 3 on 3 hits
In the regular season, he made 14 starts, achieving a 2.87 ERA through 47 innings, marking his second-best career ERA and his best since his 2022 Cy Young consideration.
Dodgers’ NLCS Outlook
The Dodgers currently lead the NLCS 2-0 against the Milwaukee Brewers. They return to Dodger Stadium for Game 4. Tyler Glasnow will start for the Dodgers, aiming to maintain his scoreless postseason record.
- Glasnow’s postseason innings: 7.2
- Strikeouts: 10
- Next game time: Thursday at 3:08 PM PT
The Dodgers are poised to build on their lead, leveraging both Ohtani’s and Glasnow’s talents. As the series progresses, the focus will be on Ohtani’s performance as a pitcher and hitter.
