The Los Angeles Dodgers have acquired a significant replace concerning Shohei Ohtani’s return to pitching, and it matches proper into their long-term recreation plan. Ohtani, who had a second main elbow surgical procedure, hasn’t thrown a pitch since August 2023. But when all goes effectively, he’s anticipated to get again to his two-way function by Could 2025. Due to a rule change after the 2023 season, he nonetheless qualifies as a two-way participant, though he hasn’t pitched shortly, as reported by The Athletic.
This designation is a large win for the Dodgers. It means he solely takes up one roster spot and doesn’t rely in opposition to the group’s 13-pitcher restrict, giving them further flexibility. Some latest tweaks to MLB’s web site prompted a little bit of confusion about his standing, however the rule itself hasn’t modified, so his eligibility stays intact.
The Dodgers have already dedicated to working a six-man rotation, primarily to stability the workloads of Ohtani and Japanese ace Yoshinobu Yamamoto. This setup helps stop accidents and retains arms contemporary over the lengthy haul.
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On the plate, Ohtani had a historic 2024 MLB season. He topped the league in dwelling runs and RBIs, hitting .310 with 54 homers, 130 RBIs, 134 runs scored, 197 hits, and 59 stolen bases. That efficiency earned him his third unanimous MVP award and propelled the Dodgers to their eighth World Sequence title.
His restoration from Tommy John surgical procedure has been transferring alongside steadily. He began throwing once more in December and has now progressed to bullpen periods. Nevertheless, issues haven’t been fully easy. A separate process on his left shoulder in November has made issues somewhat difficult, limiting his vary of movement at instances. Even so, Ohtani stays optimistic, and Dodgers supervisor Dave Roberts has clarified that there’s no rush. He gained’t be pitching in spring coaching or participating in any minor league rehab video games. The group is taking a cautious strategy.
As soon as he’s again to full two-way duties, the Dodgers are able to handle his workload. Roberts has hinted that Ohtani may take occasional days off from hitting and reduce on stolen base makes an attempt to ease again into issues. However together with his bat already in high kind, the group expects him to make a right away impression on the plate whereas holding Could in sight for his return to the mound.