Ohtani Looks Ahead of Schedule, Facing Batters in Spring Training

GLENDALE, Arizona – Shohei Ohtani is ahead of schedule in his return to the mound for the Los Angeles Dodgers, facing live hitters this week at Camelback Ranch, according to multiple reports. The two-way superstar’s progress is particularly encouraging given the logistical challenges presented by his upcoming participation in the World Baseball Classic.

Ohtani, recovering from a second Tommy John surgery, threw to batters on Tuesday, alongside teammate Yoshinobu Yamamoto, marking a significant step in his pitching build-up. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts expressed optimism about Ohtani’s progress, stating, “The fact that we’re seeing him face hitters, getting built up, he’s definitely ahead of where he was last year as far as pitching goes. That’s a good sign.”

The Dodgers are proceeding cautiously with Ohtani’s workload, acknowledging the unique demands placed on him as both a pitcher and a hitter. Roberts indicated that Ohtani will not be on a traditional five-day pitching rotation, instead receiving built-in rest days, especially early in the season. This approach mirrors the strategy employed last year as Ohtani returned to the mound, gradually increasing his pitch count and innings pitched.

Yamamoto, who also experienced a heavy workload in Japan prior to joining the Dodgers, appears to be further along in his spring training preparation than Ohtani. Roberts suggested Yamamoto is likely to appear in a Cactus League game before departing to join Team Japan for the World Baseball Classic, while Ohtani’s participation in exhibition games is considered “unlikely.”

Ohtani’s participation in the World Baseball Classic presents a unique challenge to the Dodgers’ plans. While he will not pitch for Team Japan – a decision reportedly influenced by insurance concerns – his participation as a designated hitter will require him to leave Dodgers camp. This interruption could limit his opportunities for live game experience before the start of the regular season.

Despite the potential disruption, the Dodgers remain confident in their ability to manage Ohtani’s workload and prepare him for a successful return to the rotation. The team has experience navigating Ohtani’s dual-role demands, having carefully monitored his progress throughout last season. Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman emphasized the need for flexibility, stating, “We’ve seen him ramp up to pitching action with limited opportunities before. We have a blueprint for that.”

The Dodgers’ approach will likely involve a creative use of their pitching staff early in the season, potentially utilizing a six-man rotation or employing a long reliever to compensate for Ohtani’s extended rest periods. This strategy would allow Ohtani to gradually build his arm strength and endurance without being subjected to the rigors of a standard pitching schedule.

While Ohtani has expressed aspirations to contend for a Cy Young Award, the Dodgers are tempering expectations, recognizing the challenges of returning from surgery and balancing his pitching and hitting responsibilities. However, they remain optimistic about his potential to make a significant impact on the team’s success.

Ohtani reported to Dodgers Spring Training early, as he has in previous years, even before pitchers and catchers were officially scheduled to report. This dedication to preparation underscores his commitment to returning to form and contributing to the Dodgers’ pursuit of a three-peat championship.

The Dodgers open the season with a fully healthy Ohtani for the first time since signing him ahead of the 2024 season. The team is planning for Ohtani to be ready to start in the Dodgers rotation come Opening Day, but will not use a traditional five-day rest schedule.

The Dodgers will likely give Ohtani built-in rest days between starts, at least through the first month of the regular season, as he works his way back to a standard workload. Ohtani could see six to eight days between starts, depending on his durability and the rotation’s makeup.