In a surprising revelation, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has expressed openness to the idea of Shohei Ohtani taking the mound in a big league game during this postseason, even though the two-way superstar has yet to pitch this season. While Roberts acknowledged the challenges faced by Ohtani due to his recent elbow surgery and limited throwing off the mound, he did not completely rule out the possibility.

Speaking to the Los Angeles Times, Roberts stated, "I wouldn't say no way... I'm not going to close the door 100 percent." Ohtani had undergone elbow surgery last September, and it was only in late August that he began throwing off a mound. Given the short build-up, Roberts admitted that it would be a long shot for Ohtani to face hitters in a live game.

Roberts likened Ohtani's potential return to the storyline of a movie or a book, saying, "If I was scripting a movie or writing a book, it would be a no-brainer that he comes out of rehabilitation and throws the last pitch. The problem is, in reality, he hasn't thrown a leverage pitch in over a year. If he were to come out and it does go awry, it's not worth potential injury. You just cannot duplicate the stress of that one inning. I just don't think it's worth it."

However, if Ohtani's health permits, Roberts revealed that the talented player is eager to get back on the pitcher's mound. Speaking on Sirius XM MLB Network Radio on Friday, Roberts said, "Shohei is on board... We'll just have to see how it plays out."

Ohtani has already made history in the 2024 season with his outstanding performance as a hitter. In his first year with the Dodgers, after signing a record-breaking 10-year, $700 million contract over the offseason, Ohtani has been a force to be reckoned with. Heading into Friday's play, he boasts an impressive slash line of .292/.375/.617, along with 47 home runs and 48 stolen bases. Ohtani is on the verge of becoming the first player in MLB history to achieve the remarkable 50-50 feat of hitting 50 home runs and stealing 50 bases.

While the Dodgers would welcome any contribution from Ohtani as a pitcher, it is worth noting that the team is currently in a comfortable position. With a record of 87-59, they hold a five-game lead over the Diamondbacks in the NL West. Therefore, the Dodgers can afford to be cautious and prioritize Ohtani's long-term health and well-being.

As the regular season draws to a close and the postseason looms, all eyes will be on whether Shohei Ohtani takes the mound for the Dodgers. Only time will tell if this much-anticipated comeback becomes a reality, but one thing is certain: Ohtani's undeniable talent and versatility is a valuable asset for the team.