Dodgers' Shohei Ohtani Won't Pitch in World Series, Says Roberts

In a World Series filled with intriguing narratives, one was put to rest on Thursday: Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani will not return to the mound to face the New York Yankees.

"There is no possibility, none whatsoever," said Dodgers manager Dave Roberts. "Thank you for asking."

Ohtani has not pitched since undergoing major elbow surgery last September while with the Los Angeles Angels. This season, he was exclusively a designated hitter for the Dodgers, where he excelled and became the overwhelming favorite to win the NL MVP award, having posted the first 50-home run, 50-steal season in MLB history.

Throughout the season, Ohtani focused on rehabilitating his elbow. In late August, he began throwing off a mound, and last month, Roberts hinted at the possibility of Ohtani pitching in the postseason. However, the Dodgers soon halted those discussions.

Ohtani himself expressed no disappointment regarding the decision. "I've never said to them that I wanted to pitch in the postseason," he stated through an interpreter.

Had he pitched, Ohtani would have joined a bullpen that has been crucial to the Dodgers' postseason success. With only three starting pitchers, the Dodgers are expected to use at least one bullpen game in the World Series.

Reinforcements could soon arrive for the relief corps. Alex Vesia, the Dodgers' top left-handed reliever, indicated to ESPN's Alden González that he is "90% sure" he will be on the Dodgers' roster after missing the National League Championship Series due to an intercostal injury. Vesia threw 15 pitches in a live bullpen session on Wednesday and had a strong showing in the NL Division Series against the San Diego Padres, tossing three scoreless innings and posting a 1.76 ERA over 67 appearances during the regular season.

Additionally, Roberts noted that Brusdar Graterol is "trending in the right direction." Graterol, who missed most of the regular season with shoulder and hamstring injuries, made only seven appearances. However, he has a notable 1.64 ERA in 22 career postseason games.

"It's part of the math," Roberts explained regarding Graterol's limited action this season. "I think the other part is his track record in the postseason, how good he's been, how good the heartbeat's been. We believe in the person, the stuff."

Roberts concluded, "If he is on the roster, then it's more about when I feel comfortable using him. I just don't know that answer, but I am hopeful that he's in a good spot right now."