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Shohei Ohtani 2019 Outlook: Two-Way Star Has Appeal Despite Tommy John Surgery
6 years agoLos Angeles Angels two-way phenom Shohei Ohtani lived up to expectations in his first season in the States and won the American League Rookie of the Year despite playing in 104 games and making only 10 starts on the mound. He posted a 3.31 ERA, 1.16 WHIP and strong 11.0 K/9 in his 51 2/3 innings of work before suffering from elbow issues that eventually led to Tommy John surgery. The Japanese right-hander was coveted more in fantasy for his arm than for his bat, but he also surprised from the left side of the batter's box in 326 at-bats. Ohtani, who served as the designated hitter mostly against right-handed pitchers, hit .285/.361/.564 with 22 home runs, 61 RBI, 59 runs scored and 10 stolen bases. While he won't be on the mound in 2019, his fantasy value as a hitter will depend on whether he's cleared to serve as the DH next year while rehabbing his right elbow. His struggles against lefties (.222, two homers) and eligibility only in a utility role limit his upside. But there's no denying his pop at the plate and his speed on the base paths, which will put him in play for his bat in all mixed leagues. Ohtani is RotoBaller's 114th-ranked player overall. If he's allowed to swing freely in spring training without any issues, his price will only go up.
