Dodgers Manager Dave Roberts Considers Shohei Ohtani for Game 7 Start
TORONTO, ONT – Shohei Ohtani may take the mound for the Los Angeles Dodgers in Game 7 of the World Series on Saturday, following their 3-1 win over the Toronto Blue Jays in Game 6. The victory forced a decisive final match at Rogers Centre.
Manager Dave Roberts stated that while Yoshinobu Yamamoto is ruled out, nearly every other pitcher remains an option, including Ohtani and Tyler Glasnow.
“Everyone will be available,” Roberts said.
Roberts also confirmed that three-time Cy Young Award winner and former Dodger Max Scherzer is expected to start for Toronto. The Dodgers’ rotation, however, remains flexible, with Roberts open to several approaches.
“I think right now, there’s no wrong answer,” Roberts said. “He’s certainly going to be part of the pitching plan. With Shohei, it could be two innings or four — we’ll talk to him first to see where he feels most comfortable.”
Roberts hinted he could use Ohtani as either an opener or even place him in the outfield, depending on team needs and Ohtani’s readiness after Game 6.
Game 7 Outlook
- Ohtani could start or appear as a reliever.
- Glasnow might pitch on consecutive days.
- Yamamoto will not pitch.
- Scherzer will likely start for the Blue Jays.
Team Dynamics
Ohtani and Dodgers catcher Will Smith were seen discussing strategy in the eighth inning of Game 6. The atmosphere within the Dodgers dugout remains focused yet optimistic heading into the winner-takes-all clash.
Author’s summary: Dave Roberts keeps his Game 7 pitching strategy open, with Shohei Ohtani emerging as a versatile and likely key figure for the Dodgers.