Shohei Otani to Add Even More to His Legend
The legend of Japanese sensation Shohei Otani continues to grow by leaps and bounds. Now, the Nippon Ham Fighters have a new plan for their star pitcher/outfielder.
If one was to create the fictional perfect baseball player, it may well be Japanese sensation Shohei Otani. Not only has he dominated as a pitcher, routinely throwing over 100 MPH, even late into games, but he has developed into one of the best power hitters in the league. The 22 year old added to his growing legend the other day, ripping a pinch hit homer in a game that he missed due to illness. That homer was his 20th of the year, in only 292 plate appearances.
And yet, if Otani’s legend had not already taken on those storybook proportions, a new chapter is set to begin. Looking to maximize the value of their star pitcher/outfielder, the Nippon Ham Fighters have indicated that they may pitch Otani in relief during those games he is in the outfield (translation required). This way, not only can they keep his bat in the lineup, but they can bring in his 100 MPH fastball in a key situation.
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This idea opens the door for a forward thinking team if/when Otani comes over to the States. He has already said that he wants to pitch and play in the outfield, which may complicate matters for teams bidding for his services. However, should a team be willing to let him do both, the Ham Fighters idea could lay the perfect groundwork for Otani to be a true weapon.
While the idea for Otani, if he came stateside, would be as a starting pitcher, this strategy could change that mindset. Given his 100 MPH fastball, Otani could flourish as a closer as well. By bringing him in for the ninth, and replacing him in the outfield with a solid defensive player, whatever team has Otani could kill two birds with one stone. And, should he falter in the save situation, his bat would still be in the lineup.
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The Nippon Ham Fighters have a novel idea as to how to utilize Shohei Otani’s unique skillset. In fact, they may be designing a future blueprint for MLB teams if/when he brings his talents stateside.