Breaking News: Los Angeles Dodgers Manager Dave Roberts Weighs Participation of Japanese Stars Ohtani, Yamamoto, and Sasaki in World Baseball Classic, Cautioning Flagship Players Could Face ‘Delicate’ Situation After Marathon World Series
Headline:
Dodgers’ Ohtani, Yamamoto, Sasaki in Delicate Situation Ahead of World Baseball Classic
Subheading:
Roberts Unsure on Pitch Limits as Dodgers Star Threatens WBC Return
Orlando, FL – Dave Roberts, manager of the Los Angeles Dodgers, finds himself in a delicate situation regarding the participation of Japanese stars Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, and Roki Sasaki in the upcoming World Baseball Classic (WBC).
Theostaid of a Long Season
Roberts admitted that the situation is “very delicate” following a World Series that stretched into November. The Dodgers’ trio had significant workloads in the season just ended. Ohtani, in particular, had elbow surgery in September before returning to the mound in June.
Ohtani’s Phenomenal Season
The two-way sensation helped the Dodgers become the first repeat World Series champion in a quarter-century, starting the Game 7 win over Toronto. He won his fourth unanimous Most Valuable Player award, posting a .282 batting average with 55 homers, 102 RBIs, and 20 stolen bases, while also going 1-1 with a 2.87 ERA over 14 starts.
Roberts Seeks Dialogue on Limitations
Roberts indicated that conversations are ongoing about potential restrictions and limitations for the Japanese stars, “just trying to give them the opportunity” while also acknowledging their long seasons and looking ahead. However, he provided no new clarity on the matter.
Ohtani MVP in 2023 WBC
Ohtani was the MVP of the 2023 WBC, where Japan beat the United States in the final. The tournament limited pitchers’ pitches, including mandatory off days after certain pitch counts. Roberts admitted that he’s “hoping [Ohtani] doesn’t [pitch in the WBC], but I don’t know” and suggested that Ohtani might just bat this time around.
Yamamoto and Sasaki’s 2023 Seasons
Yamamoto, limited to 90 innings by a triceps injury in his first season with the Dodgers, pitched 211 innings in the regular season and playoffs combined. Sasaki, in his rookie season, missed time with a right shoulder impingement but became the Dodgers’ closer in the post-season.
Dodgers’ Plans for Ohtani
The Dodgers plan to have Ohtani as a regular member of the starting rotation next season, with Roberts hinting at a six- to eight-day rest plan between starts to keep him fresh.
Did You Know?
The World Baseball Classic runs from March 5 to March 17, just nine days before the Dodgers’ season opener against Arizona. The tournament’s rules and player workload limitations could significantly impact the Dodgers’ 2024 campaign.
Pro Tip
Follow @247Sports for breaking news and updates on the Dodgers, Ohtani, and the WBC.
FAQ
Q: Will the Dodgers limit their Japanese stars’ pitching workloads in the WBC?
- Roberts: “I would like to think that it’s going to be a dialogue… But right now there’s no more clarity.”
Q: Will Ohtani pitch in the WBC?
- Roberts: “I’m hoping he doesn’t but I don’t know… Probably the thought is he’s probably just going to hit.”
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About the Author
Paul Thompson is a senior sports journalist at 247Sports, specializing in Major League Baseball. With over 15 years of experience covering the sport, he brings unparalleled insight and expertise to our readers.
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