Can Shohei Ohtani be a DH and a Closing Pitcher?

When discussing the possibilities of a player's dual role in Major League Baseball (MLB), the name that often comes up is Shohei Ohtani. His unique skill set as both a slugger and a pitcher makes him a fan favorite, but can he also perform the seemingly contradictory roles of designated hitter (DH) and a closing pitcher? Let’s delve into the feasibility of such a proposition.

Theoretical Possibility

From a purely theoretical standpoint, it is indeed possible for someone to start a game as a designated hitter and switch to a defensive position later in the game. The American League (AL) typically uses the DH option, allowing a player to hit without having to play in the field. If this player were to switch positions to, say, the outfield, his team would lose this DH option for the remainder of the game.

Similarly, a closing pitcher—a highly specialized role reserved for world-class relievers—is generally a pitcher who can consistently appear 50 or more times a year, often multiple times in consecutive days. These skills, especially in the context of playing defense, are fundamentally different from those required of a DH.

Practical Considerations

The question of why one would want to assign a player to both these roles is fundamentally the challenge. Teams usually use the DH to fill the lineup with a player who is a strong hitter but doesn’t have the defensive skills to play a traditional position. By contrast, the closing pitcher role is reserved for players who are not just good pitchers but possess overpowering stuff, excellent control, and the durability to pitch frequently in high-stress situations.

Shohei Ohtani's career in Major League Baseball has been primarily as a power hitter. In three seasons, he has recorded a batting average of .269, slugging percentage of .503, and an OPS of .843. His pitching, while showing some promise, has been less consistent, with a 4-3 record and ERA of 4.39 in just 12 games. There is no substantial evidence to suggest that he is a more effective reliever compared to other potential starters or closers on his team or any other team.

Player Focus and Competitive Edge

Players who excel in both hitting and pitching typically specialize in one. Excelling as a hitter demands significant mental and physical focus without the stress of pitching. Likewise, showcasing pitching prowess requires an intense routine and preparation. Given Ohtani's success as a hitter, it’s more prudent for him to focus on his strengths in hitting rather than attempting to retool himself as a reliever.

Last season, Ohtani had difficulty pitching, and the risks associated with overworking his arm are significant. If he were to attempt such a dual role, there are practical concerns. First, would his arm be physically capable of holding up to the demands of rapid succession in pitching and hitting? Second, would he possess the mental toughness to consistently perform in a high-pressure role like a closing pitcher?

Owner's Perspective

From a management perspective, it’s worth noting that if the team owner wished to experiment with such a role for Ohtani, the rules of the game do allow for it. However, in practical terms, Ohtani’s entire career has been as a pitcher, and his arm might not be built for the rigors of multiple starts in a row required of a closing pitcher. Proper warming up and recovery might also be an issue, especially if he needed to pitch soon after hitting a home run or batting in the ninth inning.

The conclusion is that while theoretically possible, the practical challenges and risks make it unlikely for Shohei Ohtani to be effectively both a designated hitter and a closing pitcher. His strengths lie in his batting, and his performance as a pitcher has shown room for improvement. While creativity and innovation in baseball can lead to new strategies, the reliable strengths of a player should be the primary focus to maximize their potential.