Shohei Ohtani says he intends to return as a pitcher in 2027, even after the Los Angeles Dodgers’ postseason run ends in disappointment. The comments come following the Dodgers’ playoff exit, which multiple outlets describe in terms of a difficult season for the team and for Ohtani’s pitching health.
Newsweek and Yahoo Sports both report that Ohtani discusses his longer-term plans for pitching and whether he sees himself taking the mound again after the 2026 season’s setbacks. While the outlets differ slightly in emphasis—Yahoo focuses more on how the decision affects the Dodgers going forward, and Newsweek highlights Ohtani’s personal disclosure—both frame the decision as tied to his recovery and readiness.
Overall, the outlets agree that the Dodgers do not necessarily need Ohtani to pitch to compete, but they would benefit from having him healthy and available for postseason performance. Ohtani’s statement sets expectations for his potential return in 2027 rather than immediately resolving questions about his near-term pitching role.
