Shohei Ohtani Eyed for NLCS Game 7 Bullpen Role, Set for Game 4 Start

Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has outlined a strategic plan for Shohei Ohtani, potentially deploying him as a reliever in a winner-take-all NLCS Game 7. This unprecedented MLB bullpen role for Ohtani would follow his scheduled Game 4 start, set for 13 days after his Game 1 NLDS outing where he delivered six innings, three runs, and nine strikeouts. Game 4 will mark Ohtani's postseason pitching debut at Dodger Stadium. The possibility of Ohtani pitching in relief has also reignited discussions about him playing the outfield, a role he's prepared for, due to MLB rules preventing a DH from staying in after a relief appearance. Meanwhile, Ohtani, the likely NL MVP, has struggled at the plate in the postseason, going 4-for-29, despite facing dominant left-handed pitching.