He has to start if they want to keep his bat. If I understand the rule, a starting pitcher can remain in the game as a hitter if he is pulled (switching with another position player, of course). But a relief pitcher cannot. Somebody correct me if I have that wrong.
No, you’re thinking of how it used to be when the national league didn’t have the DH rule. Ohtani is in the DH position and he can pitch or be put into another position without having to pull him. As long as he remains the DH he stays in. They changed the rule especially for Ohtani when he was playing with the Angels. It’s known as the ‘Ohtani rule’ now days.
Yes, the commentators were discussing just that. I was busy with a repair, so I wasn’t paying super close attention, but I believe you have it correct.
I would think Othani would be good for a couple innings of pitching, then pull him, but if he’s pitching great, maybe keep him in longer - just pull him at the first sign that he (Othani) is not at the very top of his pitching game.