Shohei Ohtani Set for Historic MLB Postseason Pitching Debut in NLDS Game 1

Shohei Ohtani is slated to make his historic MLB postseason pitching debut as the Los Angeles Dodgers' Game 1 starter in the NLDS against the Philadelphia Phillies on Saturday, as confirmed by manager Dave Roberts. This marks a significant milestone, making Ohtani the first player in MLB history to start at least one game as a pitcher and one as a non-pitcher in a single postseason. Ohtani did not pitch last season due to surgery recovery and had not reached the postseason in his six seasons with the Los Angeles Angels. He has gradually returned to pitching this season after a second surgery, making his debut on June 16 against the San Diego Padres (one inning) and pitching six full innings on September 23 against the Arizona Diamondbacks, his last appearance. This season, he boasts a 2.87 ERA with 62 strikeouts in 47 innings, while also excelling as a designated hitter with 55 home runs (third-most in the league) and 102 RBIs, following his NL MVP season last year.