Shohei Ohtani remains committed to continuing his unique two-way role as both a pitcher and hitter for the Los Angeles Dodgers in the 2027 season, despite a challenging and injury-plagued 2026 campaign. Speaking on Thursday night through his interpreter, Ohtani confirmed his intention to return to pitching next year, expressing optimism about having a stronger season.
The 32-year-old two-time Most Valuable Player faced a series of physical setbacks throughout the 2026 season that limited his availability on the mound and contributed to a notable decline in his offensive production late in the year. Ohtani pitched just 85 innings before being shut down after July 3 due to arm and knee issues. Meanwhile, his batting performance deteriorated over the final months, leading to a stint on the injured list in September. In the playoffs, he managed a .192 batting average but struggled to contribute decisively until hitting a three-run homer in Game 4 of the National League Championship Series (NLCS). The Dodgers were ultimately swept in four games by the Milwaukee Brewers.
Ohtani acknowledged his frustration at not being able to pitch during the postseason, describing it as a source of dissatisfaction. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts had previously indicated that Ohtani was dealing with multiple ailments, including discomfort in his right arm, right hip, left knee, and neck during the playoffs.
Looking ahead to the offseason, Ohtani mentioned the possibility of undergoing surgery, though he did not specify which injury might require intervention. He stated that decisions about treatment and recovery would be analyzed and discussed in due course. Despite the uncertain health outlook, Ohtani emphasized his intention to return to a full-time two-way role and improve his durability.
The Dodgers face the challenge of managing Ohtani’s workload more effectively to preserve his health and enhance his on-field contributions. Suggestions include providing longer rest periods between his pitching assignments or limiting his early-season pitching innings to reduce physical strain. While Ohtani’s personal desire is to maintain his dual responsibilities, the team appears poised to play a key role in determining how that ambition is balanced with practical considerations.
Ohtani expressed a reflective attitude about the past season, noting he had yet to fully process what he learned. He plans to revisit his treatment and training programs in preparation for 2027, hoping to find ways to sustain his unprecedented two-way performance over a full campaign.
As labor issues and potential offseason uncertainties loom, the Dodgers and Ohtani face a pivotal period in shaping his role for next year, with both sides aiming to achieve a balance between his remarkable talents and his physical limits.