Shohei Ohtani’s transition from designated hitter back to his renowned two-way role is progressing steadily, though a return to pitching remains on the horizon.
The Los Angeles Dodgers’ standout recently faced live hitters for the first time since undergoing elbow surgery in September 2023, marking a significant milestone in his rehabilitation.
During a simulated inning at Citi Field, Ohtani delivered 22 pitches to teammates Hyeseong Kim, Dalton Rushing, and JT Watkins. Despite aiming to keep his fastball between 93-94 mph, he reached velocities up to 97 mph.
“He has taken a very methodical approach to this. We’ve tried to take a very methodical approach to this, understanding the uniqueness of the situation,” said Dodgers pitching coach Mark Prior. “I will never, and I don’t think anybody in that room would ever, doubt what he can do. But, you know, still got a long way to go. We’ll see where it comes out at the end of this year.”
Ohtani plans to continue throwing to live hitters weekly, aligning with his eventual pitching schedule once cleared for game action. However, Prior’s remarks suggest that his return to the mound is still months away.
Ohtani’s balancing act: Offense and rehabilitation
While Ohtani’s pitching comeback is gradual, his offensive contributions remain invaluable.
Leading the league with 19 home runs and 57 runs scored, he continues to be a formidable presence at the plate. His ability to maintain elite performance as a designated hitter while rehabilitating showcases his exceptional talent and dedication.
The Dodgers’ pitching staff, currently dealing with injuries to key players like Tyler Glasnow, Roki Sasaki, and Blake Snell, could greatly benefit from Ohtani’s return to the rotation. Yoshinobu Yamamoto has emerged as a reliable starter with a 1.97 ERA, but the rest of the rotation has struggled, posting a combined 5.01 ERA.
Ohtani’s previous success on the mound, including a 3.01 ERA over 86 starts with the Angels, underscores the potential impact of his return. However, the Dodgers are prioritizing a cautious approach to ensure his long-term health and effectiveness.
As the season progresses, Ohtani’s weekly live batting practice sessions will serve as benchmarks for his recovery. The team remains optimistic about his eventual return to pitching but emphasizes the importance of patience and adherence to the rehabilitation process.
In the meantime, fans can continue to enjoy Ohtani’s offensive prowess, with the anticipation of his two-way return adding excitement to the Dodgers’ season.
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