Ohtani Throws: Dodgers Star’s Return Timeline
- Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani faced live hitters Sunday for the first time since undergoing elbow surgery in September 2023, marking a significant step in his recovery.
- Pitching coach Mark Prior told reporters that OhtaniS fastball reached 97 mph during the session.
- The Dodgers plan to keep Ohtani with the team during his rehab, allowing him to continue hitting while participating in simulated games to prepare for pitching.This approach mirrors...
Shohei ohtani is back on the mound! The Dodgers‘ superstar threw 22 pitches in live batting practice, hitting 97 mph, a major milestone after his elbow surgery. Manager Dave Roberts anticipates Ohtani becoming a top-tier starting pitcher, highlighting the team’s high expectations. This simulated game strategy mirrors a previous approach, allowing Ohtani to continue hitting while preparing to pitch. Before his injury, the primary_keyword pitcher showcased dominant performance, demonstrating his impact potential. With multiple starting pitchers currently sidelined, the Dodgers keenly await his return to bolster their rotation. Explore his rehab and find out what’s next, with the added benefit of expert insights at News Directory 3.
Shohei ohtani Progresses in Rehab with Live Batting Practice
Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani faced live hitters Sunday for the first time since undergoing elbow surgery in September 2023, marking a significant step in his recovery. The session involved 22 pitches against teammates Hyeseong Kim, Dalton Rushing, and coach J.T. Watkins.
Pitching coach Mark Prior told reporters that OhtaniS fastball reached 97 mph during the session. Manager Dave Roberts expressed high expectations for Ohtani’s return. “If it kind of works out as it should, he’s a top-end starter,” Roberts said.
The Dodgers plan to keep Ohtani with the team during his rehab, allowing him to continue hitting while participating in simulated games to prepare for pitching.This approach mirrors the Los Angeles Angels’ strategy following Ohtani’s initial elbow surgery in 2018.
Before his injury in 2023, Ohtani pitched 132 innings with a 3.14 ERA and 167 strikeouts. From 2021-23, he maintained a 2.84 ERA with 542 strikeouts over 428 1/3 innings, highlighting his potential impact on the Dodgers’ pitching rotation. The team currently has multiple starting pitchers on the injured list, increasing the urgency for Ohtani’s return to the mound.
Despite a substantial payroll, the Dodgers have utilized 13 different starting pitchers this season, the most in MLB. The team prioritizes long-term success, using the regular season to prepare for the postseason.
“If it kind of works out as it should, he’s a top-end starter. And so that’s kind of all of our expectations.”
What’s next
Ohtani’s progress will be carefully monitored as he continues his rehab. The Dodgers anticipate his return to the starting rotation later in the season, providing a significant boost to their pitching depth and overall competitiveness.