Speculation has been swirling about the possibility of Shohei Ohtani making his postseason pitching World Series debut for the Los Angeles Dodgers.

But on Thursday, Andrew Friedman, The Dodgers president of baseball operations, addressed those rumors in a radio interview and put them to rest.

Ohtani has been playing catch in flat ground throughout the playoffs, leading some to wonder if he might return to the mound sooner than expected. However, any notion of Ohtani moving on can be officially ruled out.

After undergoing his second major elbow surgery, Ohtani has been limited to designated hitter duties this season. While he has reached a stage in his recovery where pitching is technically possible, it is in everyone’s best interest for him to focus on hitting now.

Even baseball legend Randy Johnson thinks the smart move is to wait to have Ohtani pitch. Talking further The Pat McAfee Show, Johnson explained, “If I was the owner or management or whatever with the Dodgers, I’d just let him continue to be the offensive force that he’s been for the Dodgers. Then I’d go into spring training and see where he’s at. Hopefully, he can be a big part of the rotation next year.”

Ohtani hasn’t taken the mound since Aug. 23, 2023, after his second Tommy John surgery — his first was back in 2018. While there’s excitement surrounding the possibility of his return to the mound, even his teammates realize it might not be the right time .

Dodgers pitcher Tyler Glasnow echoed similar thoughts foul territory, says, “When you think about the long run, and it being his second Tommy John surgery, plus the fact that he signed a huge contract, it’s probably not the best idea to rush him back. What he’s done as a hitter has been incredible, and I’m sure if you asked him he’d be ready, but it’s more of a collective decision.”

Glasnow went on to say, “Getting back into pitching shape takes time—throwing bullpens, facing live hitters—and while I have no doubt that Shohei could come in and dominate, it’s probably best to wait. I would be surprised if that happens, but I know he could do it if needed.”

Finally, Friedman made it clear: “He’s a one-way player for the next 10 days, and then he’ll go back to being a two-way player.”