While Shohei Ohtani is entering a second season with the Los Angeles Dodgers, the team is poised to get their first look at his true two-way potential.
Ohtani was limited to only filling a role as the Dodgers’ designated hitter in 2024, which he did in record-setting fashion by becoming the first player in MLB history with 50 home runs and 50 stolen bases in one season. All the while he steadily navigated a throwing program as part of the rehab process from a right elbow surgery performed in September 2023.
Needing surgery in the offseason to repair a torn labrum in his left shoulder delayed Ohtani a bit, but he’s since resumed throwing.
Ohtani crossed another item off the checklist Saturday by throwing his first bullpen session of Spring Training.
Local DH Shohei Ohtani throws his first bullpen session of spring. pic.twitter.com/rlmce9v41Y
— Fabian Ardaya (@FabianArdaya) February 15, 2025
https://t.co/HnjaQJaCVn pic.twitter.com/rN3vFfh4Qu
— Jack Harris (@ByJackHarris) February 15, 2025
Shohei Ohtani’s first bullpen at Camelback Ranch. A huge crowd is here to watch. pic.twitter.com/1f87x3WnMg
— Dodger Insider (@DodgerInsider) February 15, 2025
The bullpen session is a notable step forward for Ohtani, even if he admittedly did not plan to throw at full intensity. That presumably will come in ensuing work on the mound.
Assuming there are not any setbacks, Ohtani would then advance to facing batters at some point this spring. The Dodgers are not planning to have him pitch in any Cactus League games or go on a rehab assignment before being added to the starting rotation.
When will Shohei Ohtani pitch?
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has maintained May as being the rough timeline for Ohtani to pitch in a game. President of baseball operations Andrew Friedman said the team will rely on a five-man starting rotation and only expand to six once Ohtani is prepared to join the group.
Have you subscribed to the Dodger Blue YouTube channel? Be sure to ring the notification bell to watch player interviews, participate in shows and giveaways, and stay up to date on all Dodgers news and rumors!
