Shohei Ohtani to start World Series Game 7 on mound as Dodgers navigate unique MLB rule

Derek Jeter, David Ortiz and Alex Rodriguez reacted to a wild Game 6 between the Los Angeles Dodgers and Toronto Blue Jays and previewed World Series Game 7.

The Los Angeles Dodgers are starting superstar Shohei Ohtani on the mound in Game 7 of the World Series against the Toronto Blue Jays to adhere to a unique rule. 

MLB created a rule for Ohtani, Rule 5.11(b), that put the Dodgers in a peculiar situation ahead of Saturday’s matchup, which will air exclusively on FOX at 8 p.m. ET. 

MLB instituted a rule that if a starting pitcher was in the batting lineup, he could continue hitting despite being taken off the mound — a rule that allows Ohtani to stay in the game upon being removed as a starter. 

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Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Shohei Ohtani walks to the dugout against the Toronto Blue Jays during the fifth inning in Game 4 of baseball’s World Series. The game was played in Los Angeles, California, on Oct. 28, 2025. (Brynn Anderson/AP Photo)

However, if Ohtani started the game as the team’s designated hitter and later entered in relief, they would risk losing his powerful bat in the lineup upon his exit as a pitcher. 

The only way Ohtani could remain in the game after being used as a relief pitcher would be to play the field, something he has not done often in his career. The three-time MVP has played the field just 8 1/3 innings in his career and has not done so since 2021. 

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Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter Shohei Ohtani (17) celebrates after hitting a single against the Toronto Blue Jays in the eighth inning during Game 2 of the 2025 MLB World Series. The game was