Shohei Ohtani's Journey Back: A Dual Threat's Imminent Return
Recovering from an eventful off-season, Shohei Ohtani is poised to resume his role as a pivotal force for the Los Angeles Dodgers, albeit with a careful eye on his health after undergoing elbow surgery in the fall of 2023 and an additional procedure to his non-pitching shoulder. As preparations intensify for the 2025 season, the Dodgers are preparing to utilize his unparalleled talents in both hitting and pitching capacities, albeit with a measured approach.
Ready to Hit, Easing into Pitching
As the 30-year-old phenom looks forward to another electrifying season, Ohtani will likely miss pitching during the Dodgers' opening series in Japan on March 18 and 19, 2025. "It's 'unlikely' that Ohtani will pitch during the Dodgers' opening series in Japan," shared Manager Dave Roberts, indicating a focus on Ohtani's rehabilitation timeline.
While the star won't take the mound immediately, he's expected to be ready to bat from the season's outset. This dual ability remains a cornerstone of his impact – a rarity in modern Major League Baseball.
A Historic Player with Unmatched Numbers
Ohtani's absence from the pitching rotation won't overshadow his historic achievements. In the previous season, Ohtani notched his third MVP title in four years, reinforcing his legendary status with jaw-dropping stats. With a .310 batting average, .390 on-base percentage, and .646 slugging percentage, he is a consistent offensive powerhouse.
Notably, the 2024 season saw Ohtani hit 38 doubles, seven triples, and a staggering 54 home runs. He drove in 130 RBIs and crossed home plate 134 times, alongside stealing 59 bases. His remarkable 9.2 WAR further cemented his place in baseball lore as he achieved the first-ever 50-50 season – earning MVP honors mainly as a designated hitter.
Dodgers' Strategic Rotation Planning
The Dodgers, fresh off a triumphant World Series win, are not resting on their laurels. Adding Ohtani to their lineup, even with a staggered reintroduction to pitching, demonstrates their strategic foresight. The 2025 rotation features names like Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Tyler Glasnow, and Blake Snell, promising depth and excellence. Returning stalwarts Tony Gonsolin and Dustin May also stand ready to fortify the rotation, ensuring stability during Ohtani's transitional phase back to the mound.
"The team will be 'nimble' with Ohtani's pitching workload," Manager Dave Roberts assured, underscoring a flexible and cautious approach in managing the athlete's return to full dual-threat capability.
Shaping Ohtani's Future with Dodgers
Securing Ohtani under a monumental $700 million deal, the Dodgers are betting big on his star power and immense talent. His projected pitching workload aims for the 150-inning mark, signaling clear intentions to safeguard his arm while maximizing his impact.
During the 2023 season, Ohtani's pitching record was a commendable 10-5, boasting a 3.14 ERA, 1.06 WHIP, and 167 strikeouts over 132 innings, affirming his dual capabilities and essential contributions to his team's triumphs.
A New Chapter on the Horizon
As Shohei Ohtani gears up for the 2025 season, fans and sports analysts alike eagerly await the next chapter in his groundbreaking career. Whether he’s smashing home runs or striking out opponents, Ohtani's presence promises continued excitement and a drive for excellence that challenges the conventions of the game. As the Dodgers prepare with careful optimism, the baseball world will watch in anticipation as one of the most extraordinary talents of our time takes to the field once more.