As the baseball world reels from a thrilling World Series that stretched well into November, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts now faces a new challenge. Ensuring the wellbeing of his team’s Japanese stars as they potentially participate in the World Series Baseball Classic, Roberts has revealed that discussions on any limitations or restrictions are yet to occur. With Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Roki Sasaki’s participation in the tournament being a “very delicate” matter, the manager is focused on providing the best opportunities for these athletes.
Ohtani’s Performance and Recovery
Shohei Ohtani, a two-way sensation for the Dodgers, underwent elbow surgery in September 2023 and made a triumphant return to the mound in June. His performance was instrumental in securing the Dodgers’ status as the first repeat World Series champion in a quarter-century. Ohtani started the decisive Game 7 win over Toronto, cementing his place in baseball history. However, whether he will pitch for defending champion Japan in the World Baseball Classic remains uncertain. Despite this, Roberts is hopeful that Ohtani’s focus will primarily be on hitting.
World Baseball Classic: A Platform for Excellence
The World Baseball Classic offers players a unique opportunity to represent their countries on a global stage. In the 2023 edition of the tournament, Ohtani was named Most Valuable Player. He delivered a standout performance in the final against the United States, where his strikeout of then-Los Angeles Angels teammate Mike Trout sealed Japan’s 3-2 victory. While the tournament does place certain restrictions on pitchers, it also provides them with mandatory off days to recover.
Role of Yamamoto and Sasaki
Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Roki Sasaki also played key roles in Japan’s victory in the 2023 World Baseball Classic. Yamamoto, who signed a US$325-million, 12-year contract with the Dodgers in December 2023, pitched 211 innings this year in the regular season and postseason combined. Sasaki, in his rookie season, became the Dodgers’ closer in the postseason despite suffering from a right shoulder impingement.
Roberts’ Outlook on Player Participation
While acknowledging the value of representing one’s country, Roberts stressed the need for dialogue regarding the impact of the tournament on the players. He recognized the potential costs and risks associated with their participation and emphasized the importance of player wellbeing. However, he did not dismiss the emotional significance and the opportunity the tournament presents for the players.
Future Plans for Ohtani
Moving forward, the Dodgers plan to have Ohtani as a regular member of the starting rotation next season. However, Roberts clarified that it would not be a traditional five-man rotation. Instead, the manager suggested giving Ohtani extended breaks to ensure he remains rested and prepared for the games.
Roberts’ Views on Salary Cap
Roberts has also expressed his support for a salary cap in baseball, similar to the model employed by the NBA. He believes that if spending is to be suppressed at the top, there should also be an increase in the floor to encourage spending from teams at the lower end of the scale. Despite potential changes in the rules or regulations, Roberts remains confident in the Dodgers’ ability to dominate.
