Shohei Ohtani’s impact on the Los Angeles Dodgers roster is already paying dividends, providing them with a bonafide force at the top of their lineup.
Ohtani shook off any notion that his quiet start to the regular season was because of his current one-way status. Ohtani also utilized time during the Dodgers’ road trip to continue his throwing program.
Ohtani’s current plan entails a throwing session every other day. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said the process is on the right track, via SportsNet LA:
“It’s been going according to plan. Just stretching it out a little bit, increasing the intensity a little bit. It’s been going pretty well.”
Ohtani began throwing from flat ground on March 25, with each session being monitored by members of the Dodgers training staff.
He hasn’t started a Major League game since Aug. 23 of last year, before he was shut down by the Los Angeles Angels, then used exclusively as a hitter.
Ohtani underwent the second elbow surgery of his career on Sept. 19, 2023, performed by Dr. Neal ElAttrache. Looking ahead, he could be ready to face hitters in a simulated environment at some point later in the season.
Shohei Ohtani’s hitting
With his current run, Ohtani ranks near the top in MLB in hits, on-base plus slugging percentage and doubles.
His slow start wasn’t much, but more of a roll into what he’s current doing at the plate. Ohtani’s elbow health was cleared from a rehab standpoint with plenty of time to go in Spring Training, which made a great impact on where he’s at.
Being that Ohtani is making his impact as the Dodgers’ primary designated hitter, he’s already having a massive impact with his slugging.
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