Shohei Ohtani Starting Game 7 for Dodgers vs Blue Jays

The Los Angeles Dodgers are putting everything on the line for Game 7 of the World Series. They’re handing the ball to their two-way superstar, Shohei Ohtani, to start on the mound against the Toronto Blue Jays.

Manager Dave Roberts confirmed the decision after the team’s Game 6 win. The move has already sparked plenty of debate among fans and analysts.

Ohtani will pitch on just three days’ rest, which is a rare thing for him. Los Angeles hopes his talent and competitive edge can bring them back-to-back championships.

Dodgers Go All-In on Ohtani in Game 7

Roberts didn’t make the call to start Ohtani on a whim. The team considered several options, including using Ohtani out of the bullpen.

But with everything at stake, the Dodgers decided to trust their superstar as the starter. Every pitcher is available except Yoshinobu Yamamoto, who threw six innings in Game 6 and will sit out the finale.

A Rare Three-Day Rest Start

Starting pitchers on short rest isn’t common these days—especially for Ohtani, who juggles pitching and hitting. He last pitched in Game 4, going six innings and tossing 93 pitches in a tough loss.

According to ESPN’s Alden Gonzalez, Ohtani’s only started on such short rest once before, and that time he had a lighter workload than he did in Game 4.

The Physical and Mental Challenge of Short Rest

Pitching at this level demands a strict routine for recovery and mental prep. Turning around so quickly throws Ohtani out of his usual rhythm.

He’ll have to adapt fast, both physically and mentally. The Dodgers see this as a gamble, but one worth taking given the moment.

Why Ohtani is Still the Best Option

Roberts said the choice reflects Ohtani’s fierce competitiveness and the team’s “all-hands-on-deck” mindset. Sure, pitching on short rest carries risks.

But Los Angeles thinks Ohtani’s unique skills give them the best shot to shut down Toronto’s powerful lineup. His mix of high-speed fastballs and nasty breaking stuff makes him tough to hit—even when he’s not at his freshest.

Ohtani’s Impact on the Dodgers’ Championship Hopes

Starting Ohtani in Game 7 isn’t just about tactics—it’s about trust. If he comes through, his legend in Los Angeles only grows.

Winning like this would put Ohtani’s name even deeper into Dodgers lore. There’s something special about seeing a star step up when it matters most.

Key Factors to Watch in Game 7

Several things could decide if this gamble pays off:

• Can Ohtani command his pitches with such a quick turnaround?
• Will the Dodgers’ defense hold up against Toronto’s aggressive bats?
• How will they manage the bullpen if Ohtani tires early?
• Does starting their biggest star give the team a psychological boost?

The High-Stakes Finale

Game 7 of the World Series is pure pressure—every decision feels huge. Every pitch gets picked apart.

Roberts’ decision to start Ohtani shows both urgency and belief in his ace. It’s all or nothing now, and honestly, it’s hard to imagine higher stakes.

Dodgers’ Pursuit of Back-to-Back Titles

The Dodgers know the big stage well. Still, defending a championship adds another layer of tension.

Ohtani’s presence at the start of Game 7 isn’t just about skill. It brings emotional weight—a clear sign the team’s ready to risk everything.

For Los Angeles fans, this showdown promises real drama. There’s history in the making, and maybe another parade down Vin Scully Avenue.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Shohei Ohtani Reportedly Set to Start World Series Game 7 for Dodgers vs. Blue Jays