After undergoing offseason surgery to repair a labrum tear in his left shoulder, Shohei Ohtani worked on modifying his slide during the spring to prevent future injuries.
The two-way star is taking extra precautions after partially dislocating his left shoulder during a stolen base attempt in Game 2 of the 2024 World Series. The new technique involves Ohtani keeping his left arm up and by his side at all times, rather than landing on the dirt.
“As long as the play isn’t too close, then I think I want to slide in a way that will keep me safe,” Ohtani said through interpreter Will Ireton.
“But obviously, there will be some plays that are going to be close and I will have to find a way to be able to reach the base. So in that sense, I have to be able to adjust.”
Ohtani has used the slide in games, but will also revert back to his old form if the situation calls for it. That was evident in Tuesday’s game against the Colorado Rockies when Ohtani stole a base with his left arm dragging along the dirt.
“I think it’s one of those things that because he had the injury, I think he’s still softer when he lands with his left hand,” manager Dave Roberts explained.
“But yeah, ideally, I would love it if his hand wasn’t down. But I still believe he’s mindful and cautious with it, so it’s not as hard pushing down on the dirt.”
Ohtani has appeared in 20 of the Dodgers’ 21 games this season as a designated hitter while he continues to work his way back to the mound. He currently is on the paternity list but might return before the Dodgers face the Chicago Cubs.
Shohei Ohtani not moving out of Dodgers leadoff spot
With the Dodgers offense not living up to their full potential thus far, Roberts ruled out the possibility of Ohtani moving down in the lineup for more RBI opportunities.
“Not really, given that Freddie is back and we’d be back in that same position of having the lefties back-to-back,” Roberts said. “Also, I just feel there’s guys that are going to perform better than they have and Shohei will ultimately get those opportunities.”
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