The Japanese phenomenon of the two-way player
Shohei Ohtani is going to make history in the MLB playoffs when he starts the first game of the National League Division Series between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Philadelphia Phillies as he looks to write the first chapter of his October legacy from the mound.
The Japanese two-way phenomenon was designated by manager Dave Roberts to head the rotation in the divisional series.
Shohei Ohtani set to make MLB playoff history with Dodgers vs Phillies looking to write first chapter of October legacy
According to MLB’s Sarah Langs, Shohei Ohtani will be the first player in Major League Baseball history to start at least one game as a pitcher and at least one as a non-pitcher in the same postseason. That unprecedented dual role highlights his value and the confidence the Los Angeles Dodgers have in him. Against the Phillies, every inning will count, and Ohtani’s arm will be the focal point of the strategy.
Will Los Angeles Dodgers’ Shohei Ohtani have any limitations as a starting pitcher in the Division Series?
According to Andrew Friedman, the Los Angeles Dodgers’ president of baseball operations, “He’s now just a normal starting pitcher.” For Dave Roberts and the Dodgers, that means Shohei Ohtani is free to unleash his full arsenal from the mound without restrictions as he makes MLB history with his two-way playoff debut.
Dodgers – Phillies Division Series
The Dodgers-Phillies Division Series matchup features two potent lineups, but pitching depth often decides the MLB playoffs. By Dave Roberts giving Shohei Ohtani the ball for Game 1, the Los Angeles Dodgers are sending a clear message. They are not introducing him slowly. They are attacking from the start.
For a power-based Phillies lineup, that presents a new challenge. Shohei Ohtani’s combination of fastball and splitter remains as dangerous as ever, and his ability to reset momentum with strikeouts could change the entire series.
The Dodgers also believe Ohtani’s impact goes beyond the numbers. His presence in the locker room sets a tone. Teammates are inspired by his routine, and fans see him as a symbol of the franchise’s championship drive. In a postseason defined by pressure, that intangible edge can be decisive.
The question now is whether the Dodgers’ bold choice will pay off in the opener. With Shohei Ohtani on the mound, the stage is set for history to unfold in Game 1 of the National League Division Series.
