Dodgers Manager Dave Roberts Plans to Monitor Shohei Ohtani for Postseason

Managing the Workload

The Los Angeles Dodgers are preparing for the postseason, and manager Dave Roberts is focused on keeping superstar Shohei Ohtani healthy. Roberts trusts the four time MVP to manage his own workload as the playoffs approach. Instead of daily check ins, Roberts plans to communicate occasionally with Ohtani and rely on the training staff to monitor his physical condition.

The Dodgers will benefit from a five day break during the wild card rounds. This time off will allow Ohtani to rest while participating in baseball activities, including simulated at bats, to stay sharp before the team's first playoff game.

Focus on Health Over Numbers

Roberts does not need Ohtani to produce massive statistics in October to be satisfied. Having the star in the lineup as the leadoff hitter is the primary goal.

"We need him to be full strength and also do what he does, take good at bats, take what they give you, if they're going to pitch around you to pitch to Mookie Betts, so be it," Roberts said. "And if they make mistakes, then hit it hard. We need him to be healthy and strong. It certainly helps our offense."

Ohtani recently returned from a 13 game stint on the injured list due to discomfort in his right biceps. He made his return on Wednesday against San Diego, and played his third straight game on Friday night in San Francisco.

Offense Only for the Postseason

Although Ohtani went 8-2 with a 1.79 ERA in 14 starts on the mound this year, he will not pitch again this season. This means he cannot replicate his performance from last year's National League Championship Series against Milwaukee, where he pitched six scoreless innings and hit three home runs in Game 4.

For the rest of this year, Ohtani will contribute strictly as a hitter. He entered Friday's game with a .278 batting average, 30 home runs, and 81 RBIs.

Roberts believes that playing five consecutive games to end the regular season, giving Ohtani 20 to 23 at bats, will be ideal preparation. The manager is pleased with how Ohtani has looked since his return, noting that his recent swings and at bats have been highly encouraging.