Will the Dodgers take the leap and fully unleash Ohtani’s two-way dominance?
“Pitch him already!” That’s the rallying cry from Braves legend John Smoltz, who is urging the baseball world and the Los Angeles Dodgers to unleash Shohei Ohtani’s full potential as a two-way superstar by returning him to the mound mid-season. Smoltz’s bold prediction that by 2026, we could be witnessing the most complete player in Major League Baseball history has stirred both excitement and intense debate among fans, analysts, and team executives alike. The question on everyone’s mind is: Will the Dodgers take the leap and fully embrace Ohtani’s unique dual-threat capabilities to revolutionize the game once more?
Shohei Ohtani’s rise to stardom has already changed the way baseball is viewed. He’s a phenomenon — a pitcher who dominates hitters on the mound and a hitter who terrorizes pitchers at the plate. Few players in baseball’s long history have even attempted to excel simultaneously as a pitcher and position player, let alone with Ohtani’s level of success and flair. This rare talent has earned him widespread admiration, and his name is mentioned alongside legends like Babe Ruth, the original two-way player whose shadow loomed large over the sport for decades.
Yet Ohtani’s journey has not been without challenges. Injuries have occasionally sidelined him, raising questions about the sustainability of his two-way approach. His workload must be carefully managed to preserve his health and maximize his effectiveness in both roles. These considerations have led some teams, including the Dodgers, to be cautious in fully unleashing his dual talents at the same time. However, John Smoltz’s enthusiastic call to “pitch him already” highlights the tantalizing potential of what could be gained if the Dodgers embrace Ohtani’s two-way dominance mid-season.
Smoltz, a Hall of Fame pitcher renowned for his intelligence and strategic acumen on the mound, brings a credible voice to this discussion. His years of experience navigating pitching rotations, bullpen management, and player workloads give him unique insight into how a player like Ohtani could be utilized effectively. Smoltz envisions a future where Ohtani not only thrives as a hitter but also dominates as a starter or reliever, redefining what it means to be a complete baseball player. His prediction that by 2026 Ohtani could be the most complete player in MLB history is a testament to the immense talent and work ethic Ohtani possesses.
The Dodgers, known for their innovative approaches and willingness to embrace analytics, face a strategic decision. Should they fully commit to Ohtani’s dual-role potential, balancing his pitching and hitting responsibilities to maximize his impact? Or should they continue with a more conservative approach, limiting his innings on the mound to protect his health and focusing on his hitting contributions? This decision is fraught with risk but also loaded with reward.
From a purely baseball perspective, the benefits of using Ohtani as both pitcher and hitter are profound. On the mound, his fastball velocity, devastating splitter, and deceptive pitching arsenal make him a nightmare for opposing batters. As a hitter, his power, speed, and plate discipline have made him one of the most feared bats in the league. Combining these skills means the Dodgers could have an ace starter who also provides elite offense — a rare and invaluable asset.
However, managing Ohtani’s workload is complex. The physical toll of pitching is immense, requiring rest, recovery, and careful monitoring to avoid injury. Simultaneously, hitting at an elite level demands constant adjustments, practice, and stamina. Balancing both at the same time requires not just physical ability but mental toughness and precise planning by coaching and medical staff. The Dodgers’ front office and coaching staff have a monumental task in crafting a regimen that keeps Ohtani effective and healthy.
Smoltz’s call to action also reflects a broader shift in baseball thinking. For years, specialization dominated the sport, with players focusing on singular roles — pitcher or hitter. Two-way players became a rarity, often viewed as novelty acts rather than serious contributors. Ohtani has shattered this mindset, proving that with the right talent and support, players can excel in both roles at the highest level. Embracing his full potential challenges traditional baseball paradigms and opens the door for future generations of players to follow.
The fans have been equally vocal and passionate about Ohtani’s role. Social media buzzes with excitement whenever he pitches or hits, and many clamour for him to do both regularly. The allure of watching a player take the mound, then step to the plate and change the game with his bat, creates a thrilling spectacle. For the Dodgers, leveraging this excitement can boost attendance, viewership, and overall fan engagement, offering both competitive and commercial advantages.
In practical terms, the Dodgers could explore innovative usage patterns. For example, Ohtani might pitch every five days as a starter, while playing designated hitter or even occasionally taking the field on non-pitching days. This rotation allows for rest while maximizing his time contributing offensively. Alternatively, Ohtani might be used more flexibly as a reliever and pinch hitter in high-leverage situations, exploiting his versatility. The key is a strategic plan that optimizes his strengths while minimizing risks.
Critics of the idea caution that overextending Ohtani could jeopardize his health and long-term career. Previous injuries have highlighted the vulnerabilities inherent in juggling pitching and hitting. The Dodgers must weigh the allure of immediate impact against the importance of longevity and sustainability. Striking this balance requires not just data but also trust between player and organization.
Ohtani himself has expressed enthusiasm about contributing as a two-way player, demonstrating an intense work ethic and a desire to push boundaries. His attitude and professionalism suggest he is prepared for the challenges ahead. Working closely with Dodgers trainers, coaches, and medical staff will be crucial in creating a sustainable model that supports his ambitions.
Looking beyond the immediate future, Smoltz’s prediction about 2026 invites speculation about the legacy Ohtani could carve out. Becoming the most complete player in MLB history would mean surpassing milestones not just in traditional stats but in influence on the game’s evolution. He would be a trailblazer, inspiring future athletes to embrace versatility and redefining what greatness looks like in baseball.
The Dodgers, with their history of fostering legends and embracing innovation, are well-positioned to support Ohtani’s rise to this historic status. The team’s culture of excellence, combined with cutting-edge analytics and experienced coaching, creates a fertile ground for nurturing such rare talent. Embracing Ohtani’s two-way dominance could be the next chapter in their pursuit of championships and historical acclaim.
This unfolding story also resonates beyond baseball. It touches on themes of perseverance, innovation, and the breaking of barriers. Ohtani’s journey challenges norms and encourages a reevaluation of potential in sports and beyond. His success is a testament to what can be achieved when talent is nurtured with vision and courage.
John Smoltz’s call to “pitch him already” is more than just a catchy phrase — it’s a rallying cry for baseball to embrace the extraordinary. Shohei Ohtani stands at the crossroads of history, with the potential to be the most complete player the sport has ever seen. Whether the Dodgers fully unleash his dual-threat abilities mid-season will be a decision watched closely by fans, analysts, and history-makers alike. Whatever happens, Ohtani’s journey continues to captivate and inspire, promising thrilling moments for baseball’s present and future.
