Kruk and Kuip Bold Statement About Shohei Ohtani That Got Dodgers Fans Talking

During a recent broadcast, San Francisco Giants commentators Mike Krukow and Duane Kuiper, affectionately known as “Kruk and Kuip,” sparked conversations with a bold prediction regarding Shohei Ohtani’s potential role in the Los Angeles Dodgers’ postseason. Their surprising suggestion? Ohtani, who has not pitched all season due to his second elbow surgery, might still take the mound in October.

This statement quickly stirred excitement among Dodgers fans. Ohtani, a two-way superstar, has continued to dominate as a hitter, despite the injury sidelining him from pitching. The possibility of him returning to pitch—especially in the pressure-packed postseason—has become a hot topic among both fans and analysts.

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts had previously tempered expectations about Ohtani’s return to the mound in 2024, indicating that his role would be limited to hitting. However, Roberts recently softened his stance slightly, calling Ohtani’s potential return to pitching a “dream scenario.” This shift, coupled with reports that Ohtani has been throwing bullpen sessions as part of his rehab, has fueled speculation that he could be available in a limited bullpen role during the playoffs.

While the idea remains far from certain, the timing couldn’t be more intriguing. The Dodgers have been plagued by injuries in their pitching rotation throughout the season, and adding Ohtani to their bullpen—even in a limited role—could provide a crucial boost. With their pitching depth stretched thin, Ohtani’s return could offer the team a new weapon as they push for a deep playoff run.

However, caution is key. Rushing Ohtani back to pitching before he’s fully ready carries significant risks, particularly with his long-term health and career in mind. Fans are understandably excited about the idea of seeing him pitch again, but many also worry about the dangers of jeopardizing his recovery by bringing him back too soon.

As this October approaches, the baseball world will be watching closely to see how Ohtani’s recovery progresses. His return to pitching in the playoffs would be nothing short of a spectacle, but for now, it remains an exciting yet uncertain possibility.