When Will Shohei Ohtani Pitch Next? Dodgers’ Game 4 Plan & Playoff Rotation Strategy Revealed

The Los Angeles Dodgers have announced their NLCS pitching rotation, with Shohei Ohtani set to start Game 4. This decision comes after Tyler Glasnow’s dominant Game 3 outing and Blake Snell’s near-flawless Game 1 performance.

Ohtani’s return to the mound could be the pivotal moment in the series, as the Dodgers balance his workload with their deep pitching arsenal. Fans eagerly await his first postseason start since his injury, with reports suggesting a cautiously managed 4-inning appearance.

When Will Shohei Ohtani Pitch Next? Dodgers’ Game 4 Plan & Playoff Rotation Strategy

The Los Angeles Dodgers have officially announced their pitching rotation for the NLCS, confirming that Shohei Ohtani will start Game 4. This strategic decision comes after Tyler Glasnow’s dominant Game 3 performance and Blake Snell’s masterful 8-inning shutout in Game 1. The Dodgers are clearly leveraging their deep pitching roster to maximize Ohtani’s impact while managing his workload carefully.

Ohtani’s return to the mound after being scratched from a regular-season start due to a cough has been highly anticipated. Manager Dave Roberts has hinted at a conservative approach, possibly limiting Ohtani to 4-5 innings. However, the two-way superstar’s presence in Game 4 could be the turning point for the Dodgers in this high-stakes series.

This is textbook playoff strategy. The Dodgers are saving their secret weapon for when it matters most—Game 4 could be where Ohtani cements his legacy.

The Pitching Domino Effect: How Glasnow and Snell Set the Stage

Tyler Glasnow’s Game 3 start creates the perfect setup for Ohtani’s Game 4 appearance. With Glasnow continuing his postseason dominance (2.08 ERA in his last 3 starts) and Snell’s 10-strikeout masterpiece in Game 1, the Dodgers’ rotation is clicking at precisely the right moment. This 1-2-3 punch gives Los Angeles multiple avenues to control the series.

How Many Innings Can We Expect from Ohtani in Game 4?

The big question surrounding Ohtani’s start isn’t just when, but how long. His most recent outing saw him throw five innings of two-hit ball, but the Dodgers medical staff will likely be cautious. Sources indicate the team is considering a 75-pitch limit, which could translate to 4-5 innings depending on efficiency.

Looking at Ohtani’s 2025 postseason numbers:

Four quality innings from Ohtani followed by the Dodgers’ bullpen might be more valuable than risking fatigue with a longer outing. Playoff baseball is all about playing the percentages.

The Health Factor: Is Ohtani Really 100%?

While team officials insist Ohtani has recovered from his respiratory issue, his bullpen sessions tell the real story. Reports from Dodger Stadium indicate:

• Fastball velocity at 97-99 mph (normal range)
• Sharp break on his slider and splitter
• No visible discomfort during 25-pitch sessions

The DH Dilemma: Will Ohtani Bat in Game 4?

One of the most intriguing subplots is whether Ohtani will DH in addition to pitching. His .291 average and 36 home runs make him too valuable to remove from the lineup entirely. Possible scenarios include:

• DHing until his pitching start
• Batting in the pitcher’s spot early before removal
• Being pinch-hit for after his pitching duties end

I’d gamble on letting Ohtani hit—his .412 OPS in clutch situations this postseason outweighs any fatigue concerns. The Dodgers didn’t pay $700 million for half a player.

The Bigger Picture: Dodgers’ World Series Chances

With Ohtani now confirmed for Game 4, the Dodgers’ rotation sets up beautifully for a potential World Series run:

Roster Moves: The Casparius Factor

The Dodgers made a surprising move by adding Ben Casparius to the NLCS roster while optioning catcher Dalton Rushing. This suggests they’re prioritizing bullpen flexibility over offensive depth—a clear vote of confidence in Ohtani’s bat.

This rotation reminds me of the 2016 Cubs—three aces, strategic rest, and calculated risks. If Ohtani delivers in Game 4, the Dodgers might just cruise to another championship.

Historical Context: Ohtani’s October Legacy

Ohtani’s playoff performances have been a mix of brilliance and bad luck. His career postseason numbers reveal an interesting pattern:

• 3.12 ERA in 5 career postseason starts
• 42 strikeouts in 34.2 innings
• 2.8 WAR in just 12 playoff games

This Game 4 start represents Ohtani’s chance to rewrite his October narrative and cement his legacy as both an elite hitter and pitcher when it matters most.

Legends aren’t made in April—they’re made in October. This Game 4 start could be Ohtani’s signature moment, the one they replay for decades.

Opponent Analysis: Who Will Face Ohtani?

While the specific NLCS opponent isn’t named, potential lineups have struggled against Ohtani in recent matchups. Key stats to watch:

• Opponents batting just .184 against his splitter
• Right-handed hitters going 2-for-28 this postseason
• 0.87 WHIP in night games

The Dodgers’ scouting department will undoubtedly have Ohtani prepared for whatever lineup he faces.

Weather and External Factors

Game 4 conditions could play a role in Ohtani’s performance. Forecasts suggest:

• Mid-60s temperatures at first pitch
• Low humidity (ideal for grip)
• Minimal wind

These conditions should favor Ohtani’s pitching repertoire, particularly his breaking balls.

Mother Nature is cooperating—smooth air for his splitter, cool temps to stay sharp. The baseball gods are aligning this moment perfectly.