Why Shohei Ohtani won't pitch in the 2024 World Series vs the Yankees

Shohei Ohtani is the best player in Major League Baseball, full stop.

That's true even when he doesn't go 50-50 (over 50 home runs and 50 stolen bases, in case you didn't know), because he's a pretty darn good pitcher when he takes the mound.

But that didn't happen in 2024 because was recovering from elbow surgery last year. The plan was to have him pitch again in 2025.

Then ... the Los Angeles Dodgers made the World Series. So is it possible he'll pitch if there's a key situation or two in the Fall Classic against the New York Yankees?

Nope. That's per manager Dave Roberts:

Too bad, but it makes sense if they want him healthy for 2025 and if he hasn't been stretching out his arm for the playoffs.

More MLB!

A look at the No. 34 patch the Dodgers will wear to honor Fernando Valenzuela in the World Series and 2025 season

Where to stay near Yankee Stadium during the 2024 World Series

Shohei Ohtani's 50-50 home run baseball sold for a record-shattering price despite lawsuit over ownership

This article originally appeared on For The Win: Why Shohei Ohtani won't pitch in the 2024 World Series vs the Yankees