Does Shohei Pitch?
In the world of baseball, Shohei Ohtani has become a sensation, captivating fans and analysts alike with his incredible dual-threat ability as both a pitcher and a hitter. With the ability to throw a baseball with the precision of a professional pitcher and hit it out of the park with the power of a slugger, the question on everyone’s mind is: Does Shohei pitch?
The answer to this question is both yes and no. Shohei Ohtani is indeed a pitcher, having spent a significant portion of his career in Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) as a starter. However, his role as a pitcher has been somewhat limited due to his exceptional hitting ability and the desire of his teams to maximize his value on the field.
In Japan, Ohtani has been a dominant force on the mound, often ranking among the league leaders in various pitching categories. His fastball has been clocked at over 100 miles per hour, and he has showcased a diverse arsenal of pitches, including a slider, curveball, and changeup. Despite his pitching prowess, Ohtani has only made 11 starts in his NPB career, as his primary role has been as a designated hitter (DH).
When Ohtani made the transition to Major League Baseball (MLB) with the Los Angeles Angels in 2018, it was clear that his role as a pitcher would be different. The Angels have been cautious with his pitching workload, understanding the value of his bat in the lineup. As a result, Ohtani has been used sparingly as a starter, with the majority of his appearances coming as a DH.
The debate over whether Ohtani should pitch more often has been a hot topic among baseball enthusiasts. On one hand, his pitching ability is undeniable, and his presence on the mound could elevate the Angels’ pitching staff to new heights. On the other hand, his hitting ability is what makes him so special, and the Angels may be hesitant to risk injury by using him as a starter more frequently.
Ultimately, the decision to use Shohei Ohtani as a pitcher lies in the hands of the Los Angeles Angels’ management and coaching staff. As the 2021 season approaches, it will be interesting to see how the team balances his pitching and hitting contributions. Whether or not Shohei pitches more often, it is clear that his presence on the field is a game-changer for any team he joins. The question of whether Shohei pitch may never be fully answered, but one thing is certain: he will continue to break barriers and push the limits of what is considered possible in professional baseball.
