Shohei Ohtani looks 'fantastic' as Dodgers shift into high gear

Unlocking the "full version" of Shohei Ohtani

Los Angeles pitching coach Mark Prior said that he was excited to see the "full version" of Ohtani in the 2026 season.

"Last year, it was obviously a very unique year,” Prior said during Friday’s edition of "Dodgers Territory." “He was coming off Tommy John, and then he had the shoulder injury on the non-throwing arm. This year, a full version. The fun part about Sho is, as long as he knows when he’s pitching, he’ll pitch whenever,” Prior said. “If it’s six days’ rest, if it’s eight days’ rest, if it’s three days’ rest — he’s willing to do what he needs to do to help this club win ballgames.”

Can the Dodgers maximize both sides of Shohei Ohtani?

The confidence from Prior is encouraging, as a fully unleashed Ohtani could be dangerous to the league. It would certainly help the Dodgers in their quest to lock down their fourth consecutive first-place finish in the National League West. But it raises a question as to how well they can balance Ohtani's talents. Will the Dodgers be able to use him as a pitcher and a hitter without one compromising the other?

Being a member of a six-man rotation and a top hitter is a balancing act. The Dodgers' hope is that they can manage one without sacrificing the other. That end result may be a driving force and may ultimately decide how far they go in October.