Will Shohei Ohtani be allowed to hit while he pitches against Team USA? Unpacking lineup rules ahead of explosive 2023 WBC final

As the final game of the World Baseball Classic approaches on Tuesday night, one player who will attract a lot of attention is Shohei Ohtani, the two-way sensation from Japan.

Ohtani is a rare talent who is equally adept at hitting and pitching. He has the ability to change the game on both sides of the ball, and his presence on the field is always a thrill for fans.

However, the question of whether Ohtani will be allowed to hit while he pitches against Team USA is a complicated one. The WBC has specific rules regarding lineup construction, and teams are required to follow them closely.

The WBC has several pitching limitations which specify a certain amount of recovery time for pitchers before he is allowed to pitch again. It also depends on the number of pitches the player has pitched in the previous game.

Shohei Ohtani was Japan's starting pitcher against Italy in the quarterfinals, throwing 71 pitches. For the final against Team USA, Japan has revealed that Shota Imanaga will be its starting pitcher while Ohtani will focus more on batting. However, Ohtani also revealed that he plans to take the mound in an unfamiliar role: as a relief pitcher, a role he last played in 2016 before his time in the MLB.

Ultimately, Japan's decision will have a significant impact on the outcome of the game. Ohtani is a game-changer. If Japan lets him hit while he pitches, it will add an extra dimension to its lineup and make Samurai Japan a formidable opponent for Team USA.

Shohei Ohtani prepared to lead Samurai Japan to its third WBC title

As expected, Shohei Ohtani has been one of the standout players of the World Baseball Classic. The Los Angeles Angels two-way star has led Team Japan to an unbeaten run to the finals of the tournament. He has been excellent on both sides of the ball as one of his team's best hitters while also showing his impeccable pitching prowess.

One aspect of Ohtani's game that has caught everyone's attention is his emotions while representing his country. This is a side of him MLB fans have not seen before, and it makes him even more dangerous. Hence, it is no surprise that he is willing to pitch and hit in the final of the WBC against Team USA.