Obviously having a guy like Shohei Ohtani at the World Classic is a great tool for the Japanese. He is not only a good hitter, but also a good pitcher.
And a good marketing tool.
Of course, seeing him pitch is always a pleasure, but the fact remains that he is first and foremost an Angels pitcher. And inevitably, the plan of the Japanese must make the happiness of the Angels.
According to Bob Nightengale, the Angels don’t want to see Ohtani pitch from the semifinals of the tournament. For what?
To see it launch on March 30, the first day of the season.
According to the club, he will have to start on March 24 in a cactus game to prepare. So he can pitch with the Angels and with the dial before the start of the season.
Logically, the club therefore does not want to see him launch after March 16. After all, a final on the 21st would be too late.
Obviously, he can be the DH as often as he wants, but the club wants to protect his arm a bit, which is completely normal… even if it’s a shame for the show.
