The Two-Way Player: A College Discussion

"Coach, can he do both in college?"

Now more than ever, I’m asked about the possibility of being a two-way player at the collegiate level. Parents frequently mention that one of the biggest draws to a particular program is the chance for their son to both pitch and play a position. Players echo this excitement, stating their goal is to continue doing both beyond high school.

Shohei Ohtani, look what you’ve started.

There’s absolutely nothing wrong with wanting to do both—pitch and hit. But here’s the reality:

Unless you’re a once-in-a-generation talent like Shohei Ohtani or Babe Ruth, it’s probably not going to happen.

Why It’s So Rare

High school players and parents often underestimate the demands of trying to be a two-way player in college. Here’s what many don’t realize:

1. Time

There simply isn’t enough of it. Developing both skill sets at the level needed for college ball is incredibly difficult.

2. Injury Risk

With every year of added velocity and physicality, your body becomes more susceptible to injury.

3. Team Impact

Trying to do both affects your playing time, health, and ultimately the team’s ability to win.

A Realistic Scenario

Let’s walk through a week in the life of a hypothetical player—Alex, a shortstop/pitcher.

Friday: Alex starts on the mound and throws well.
Saturday: He plays shortstop, but his arm is sore. He can’t make a key throw, a runner scores, and the team loses 5–4.
Sunday: He needs rest and sits out. The team is down a leadoff hitter and shortstop—and loses again.
Monday: Scheduled long toss. Still sore, but powers through.
Tuesday: Bullpen day. Recovery is incomplete, but he throws anyway.
Friday: Second start. He doesn’t have his stuff.
Saturday: He’s exhausted, swings late, and goes 0–4.
Sunday: Rallies with a great game—3 hits, diving play, 2 stolen bases.
Monday: Can barely move, but lifts, goes to class, then practice.
Tuesday: Bullpen is a grind.
Friday: Great start—4 innings, 8 Ks. Then… shoulder tightness.
Diagnosis: Tendonitis. Out two weeks.

Get the picture?

If that sounds extreme—it’s not. I’ve seen versions of this scenario more times than I can count.

Baseball Demands More Than Ever

Players today are expected to be more explosive, faster, and stronger than ever before. Being successful in one role is already demanding. Trying to do both at a high level?

It takes a toll that most players simply cannot handle.

If you’ve followed Shohei Ohtani’s career closely, you know the truth: the chances of him ever returning as a full two-way player are slim. He’s too valuable to risk it. What we saw was incredible—but brief. And the message is clear.

Let the Game Tell You Who You Are

Here’s my best advice to any player thinking about trying to do both in college:

Let the game show you your path.

One role always comes more naturally. Maybe hitting adjustments feel hard, but pitching makes sense. Maybe it’s the opposite for you. Pay attention—the game is always speaking.

The real question is…

Will you listen?