Overview

• USA Today's Bob Nightengale reported Los Angeles is toying with using Ohtani in relief during the playoffs, a plan multiple outlets echoed as under consideration.
• Dodgers pitching coach Mark Prior said on The Dan Patrick Show he could "absolutely" see Ohtani pitching out of the bullpen in October.
• If Ohtani enters a game as a reliever, he would forfeit his place in the batting order and could not remain as the designated hitter after pitching.
• Working back from surgery, Ohtani has logged 27.1 innings across 10 starts with a 4.61 ERA this season and has rarely pitched deep into games.
• The discussion comes as the Dodgers seek late-inning stability; Ohtani hit his 45th homer in a win at San Diego that left L.A. tied atop the NL West and drew attention for a playful high-five with a heckler.