He had a productive simulated game Tuesday, throwing 44 pitches over three innings against minor leaguers at the Dodgers’ Arizona spring complex. This will be his first time back on a big league mound after having Tommy John surgery in September 2023. This announcement has really got fans and teammates alike since then, our STARTUP!
Dodgers’ manager Dave Roberts said after the game that he was disappointed to see Ohtani rushing to get back on the mound. As he put it, “He’s getting a little bit antsy, a little bit excited.” Ohtani’s excitement is evident as he prepares to take on the San Diego Padres in the first of a four-game series. This will be his first start back after inking the historic 10-year, $700 million pact with Los Angeles before the season started.
Given Ohtani’s performance in his last two full seasons as a pitcher, expectations for Ohtani’s return are sky-high. Over his nine-year career with the Los Angeles Angels, he has amassed a jaw-dropping 38-19 win-loss record. To top it off, he has a 3.01 ERA in those 86 starts, 608 strikeouts and 173 walks in 481 2/3 innings. Ohtani’s recovery timeline remains unknown, but whenever he returns to the mound, he’ll be a massive asset for the Dodgers. His team exerts great influence over his absence.
Ohtani has had a monster year at the plate this season. After all, in only 70 games, he’s batting .297 with an .854 OPS and 41 RBI. As it stands, he leads the National League with 25 home runs and he’s maintaining an OPS above 1.035. His two-way skills as a starting pitcher and hitter place him among the most valuable baseball players. He had previously won the MVP award three times.
Roberts admitted that Ohtani’s return could make a difference at this important juncture as the team pushes for a playoff spot. He noted, “I think the thought is that given where we’re at right now, anything he can give us is additive, even if it’s an inning or two innings on the front end.”
To say Ohtani is looking forward to taking the mound in front of Dodgers fans for the first time since his surgery. Pride and optimism surges as he gets set for this historic day. Shohei Ohtani’s return is more than just a win for baseball. More importantly, it offers the Dodgers a significant opportunity to improve their roster during their next attempt at postseason glory.
