Shohei Ohtani isn’t on track to pitch for the Los Angeles Dodgers this season, but his recovery is in a good place as it stands.
The Dodgers buffed their starting rotation in the offseason with a number of arms to stockpile depth, and that should grow even better next season when Ohtani returns. But for now, Ohtani’s status as a full time designated hitter is still an incredibly productive player as he’s thrust himself into MVP contention in the National League.
As far as his recovery from a second right elbow surgery goes, everything has gone according to plan thus far. Ohtani has progressed to a point where optimism about his rehab is a reality and he’s making strides, per Bill Plunkett of the Southern California News Group:
“Usually anywhere from 60-70 pitches, in that distance,” Ohtani said. “Just continuing to increase the distance and the pitches, and just seeing where that goes. I’m not quite sure how far I’m going to go out there, but that’s the progression.”
The most recent update with Ohtani’s velocity is also in a good place, with his ramp up being a calculated approach:
“Last week, I got to 60 feet and was able to throw 80 mph.”
Ohtani has not pitched in a big league game since Aug. 23, 2023, when he made his last start for the Los Angeles Angels.
There have been no setbacks for the 29-year-old as of now, and with zero timeline or expectation of him appearing this season, the Dodgers can play the long game.
Possibility Shohei Ohtani plays the field
The Dodgers could certainly use the help in their outfield, but the investment from the front office and where his focused approach is, would be best pitching and hitting rather than risking a setback in the outfield.
Ohtani’s athleticism would put him in a decent spot, but the Dodgers shouldn’t jeopardize his future with an experimental decision.
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