Dodgers pitcher offers solution for jersey issue with Shohei Ohtani

Jul 19, 2022; Los Angeles, California, USA; American League pitcher/designated hitter Shohei Ohtani (17) of the Los Angeles Angels smiles at fans before the 2022 MLB All Star Game at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports

Joe Kelly has an idea in mind for how to handle his jersey issue on the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Kelly was re-acquired by the Dodgers in a trade with the Chicago White Sox in July. Kelly pitched for the Dodgers from 2019-2021 and is back with the team for the second time. He wears jersey No. 17, which wasn’t an issue until Shohei Ohtani announced on Saturday that he is signing with the Dodgers.

Ohtani has also worn jersey No. 17 during his MLB career, which presents a small conflict.

So what’s the solution? Kelly has the seniority, but Ohtani is the $700 million player. Hmm, tough choice.

Anyway, Kelly is a generous dude and willing to share the number with Shohei. The relief pitcher told AM 570 LA that “we could make a jersey together. It could be ‘Joehei.”

Joe Kelly proposes an idea to #ShoheiOhtani 🤣

(Via Dodger Talk @THEREAL_DV) pic.twitter.com/mCLGg8pNle

— AM 570 LA Sports (@AM570LASports) December 10, 2023

What do you think? That’s a great idea. They can share a number and their jerseys can say “Joehei” on the back. Shohei would be the hitting version of No. 17, and Kelly the pitching version.

Or maybe Kelly might have to get a jumpstart on figuring out what number he’s going to switch to …