Shohei Ohtani has already redefined what it means to be a two-way player in Major League Baseball. His unparalleled ability to dominate both as a pitcher and a hitter has made him a once-in-a-generation talent, earning him MVP honors and placing him in conversations with some of the game’s all-time greats. But according to Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts, Ohtani might be on the verge of unlocking an even higher level of performance—one that could elevate him from superstar to the undisputed best player in baseball history.
In a recent interview, Roberts hinted at a major adjustment Ohtani is working on—one that could take his game to new heights. While Roberts didn’t delve into specifics, his comments suggest that Ohtani is refining an aspect of his game that could make him even more dangerous. Given Ohtani’s already elite skill set, the implications are staggering. Whether it’s a mechanical tweak, a strategic shift, or a mental approach, this change could be the key to Ohtani reaching his absolute peak.
Since arriving in MLB, Ohtani has shattered expectations. As a hitter, he possesses a rare combination of power, speed, and plate discipline, routinely launching 450-foot home runs while maintaining a high on-base percentage. As a pitcher, his triple-digit fastball and devastating splitter have made him one of the most feared arms in the game. Even after undergoing Tommy John surgery and dealing with other injuries, Ohtani has continued to improve, proving his resilience and work ethic.
But despite his success, there have been areas where Ohtani could theoretically improve. His walk rate as a pitcher, for instance, has occasionally been higher than elite standards. At the plate, while he crushes fastballs, some pitchers have found success attacking him with breaking balls low and away. If Ohtani can make even marginal improvements in these areas, his overall production could reach unprecedented levels.
Roberts’ cryptic comments have led to widespread speculation. Here are a few possibilities for what Ohtani could be refining:
1. **Pitch Recognition & Plate Discipline**
Ohtani is already an elite hitter, but if he can further improve his ability to lay off breaking pitches outside the zone, his walk rate could climb even higher, making him nearly impossible to pitch around. Some analysts have noted that Ohtani occasionally chases sliders down and away—a weakness that, if corrected, would make him even more lethal.
2. **Pitching Command & Efficiency**
While Ohtani’s stuff is electric, he has sometimes struggled with command, leading to high pitch counts and shorter outings. If he can refine his control—particularly with his secondary pitches—he could go deeper into games, reducing stress on the bullpen and increasing his value as an ace.
3. **Base Running & Defensive Positioning**
Ohtani is already an excellent athlete, but maximizing his speed on the basepaths could lead to more stolen bases and extra runs. Additionally, refining his defensive positioning in the outfield (when he plays there) could make him an even more complete player.
4. **Mental Approach & In-Game Adjustments**
The mental side of the game is often overlooked. If Ohtani is working on better in-game adjustments—anticipating how pitchers will attack him or how hitters will approach his pitching—he could gain an even greater edge.
5. **A New Pitch or Hitting Adjustment**
Ohtani has experimented with different pitches in the past, including a cutter and a sweeper. Adding another weapon to his arsenal could make him even more unpredictable. At the plate, a slight swing adjustment could help him cover more of the zone.
If Ohtani successfully implements this adjustment, the results could be historic. Consider the following:
– **As a Hitter:** If he cuts down on strikeouts and increases his walk rate, he could post a .300/.400/.700 slash line with 50+ homers—numbers that would rival Barry Bonds’ prime.
– **As a Pitcher:** Improved command could lower his ERA to sub-2.50 while increasing his innings pitched, making him a true Cy Young contender every year.
– **Combined Impact:** No player in MLB history has ever been a top-three hitter and a top-three pitcher simultaneously. If Ohtani achieves that, he won’t just be the best player in the game today—he’ll enter the GOAT conversation.
The Dodgers are known for their player development and analytical edge. Under Roberts’ leadership, they’ve helped stars like Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman refine their approaches. Now, they’re applying that same expertise to Ohtani. The organization’s resources—from advanced metrics to biomechanical analysis—could be the perfect environment for Ohtani to take the next step.
Roberts’ comments suggest that the Dodgers see untapped potential in Ohtani. If they can help him unlock it, the rest of the league should be very, very afraid.
Shohei Ohtani is already a transcendent talent, but Dave Roberts’ hints at a major adjustment suggest that the best may still be yet to come. Whether it’s a mechanical tweak, a strategic shift, or a mental breakthrough, this change could propel Ohtani into rarified air—where he isn’t just the best player in baseball today, but perhaps the best ever.
For fans, this is an exciting revelation. For pitchers and opposing teams, it’s a nightmare scenario. If Ohtani reaches this next level, the 2024 season (and beyond) could be the year he cements his legacy as the most complete player the game has ever seen.
