The Dodgers shouldn’t pitch Shohei Ohtani in the playoffs, according to John Smoltz. The former pitcher emphasized that the intensity of postseason games presents unique challenges, especially for a player with Ohtani’s dual-role responsibilities. He argues that putting Ohtani in a high-pressure relief situation could jeopardize his future, particularly with the significant contract he is expected to command next season.
In a recent discussion with MLB on FOX analyst John Smoltz, the Hall of Famer shared insights on Gerrit Cole’s decision to intentionally walk Rafael Devers, the recent surge of the Tigers, and his concerns regarding the Orioles, who are struggling in the second half of the season. Smoltz also evaluated the Dodgers’ chances of clinching the championship despite a makeshift rotation and identified which wild-card team might emerge victorious in the World Series.
Kavner: Let’s discuss the Red Sox–Yankees matchup, particularly Gerrit Cole’s decision to intentionally walk Rafael Devers with no one on base. Were you surprised by this move, and can you recall any hitters you faced that might have warranted such an approach?
Smoltz: Walking a batter with the bases empty is not common strategy. While it’s clear that some hitters have a distinct advantage over certain pitchers, I found Cole’s decision surprising, even for Aaron Boone. If the situation dictated a walk, then it could be justified, but the empty bases changed the game’s dynamics significantly. That inning spiraled out of control for Cole, and this choice spoke volumes about his mindset toward Devers. Unfortunately for Cole, the decision backfired.
Kavner: The Orioles have struggled, with losing records in July and August, and they currently sit at 6-7 in September. What are your thoughts on their playoff prospects?
As they approach the postseason, the Orioles face significant challenges. Their desire to secure a division title is complicated by their current standing, especially with their rotation issues. Being three games back makes it increasingly difficult to achieve their goals.
Kavner: Turning to the AL wild-card race, the Tigers have gained momentum and are firmly in contention. The Mariners and Red Sox are also in the mix. Who do you see as the most likely to sneak into the playoffs?
The Tigers’ recent performance is impressive. As someone familiar with the team, I noted a couple of months ago that they were closer to contention than many believed. While they may not have many household names yet, their progress in September could be pivotal for both this season and the next. Winning meaningful games now sets a strong foundation for future success.
Even if the Tigers miss the playoffs by a narrow margin, their experience in pressure situations this month will be invaluable.
Kavner: What has surprised Detroit fans the most about the Tigers this season?
Smoltz: The pitching has been a pleasant surprise. Many fans likely only recognize Tarik Skubal, who is having an impressive season and is a strong candidate for the Cy Young Award. The pitching staff has stepped up significantly, contributing to the team’s success. They’ve had several thrilling games, often winning by slim margins, showcasing the effectiveness of their bullpen.
As players gain recognition, maintaining that momentum becomes crucial. When a player’s name resonates positively with fans and opponents alike, it can provide a strategic advantage.
Smoltz: The question remains: Can a team with a fragmented rotation rely solely on its bullpen during the playoffs? While it’s possible, it’s not a guaranteed path to success. Teams that are well-prepared for the postseason typically have a balanced roster. However, as seen with the Texas Rangers last year, a few standout performances can lead to unexpected playoff success.
Kavner: If Shohei Ohtani were healthy in October, would you consider using him out of the bullpen?
Smoltz: In today’s game, it’s unlikely that a player of Ohtani’s caliber would be put in such a position. The adrenaline of playoff baseball is intense, and with the financial stakes involved, it would be unwise to risk his health. If he had the chance to ease into a role earlier in the season, that might be different, but the current situation makes it a poor choice.
Kavner: Which non-division-leading team do you believe is best positioned for a deep playoff run?
Smoltz: The Kansas City Royals still pose a threat. The New York Mets are also showing promise as they have started to find their rhythm. Despite leading the Atlanta Braves by just one game, they are beginning to play more cohesively than earlier in the season.
However, the San Diego Padres stand out as strong contenders due to their impressive bullpen and solid starting rotation. The Padres’ experience in previous playoff matches, especially against rivals like the Dodgers, enhances their chances of making a significant impact this October.
