The anticipation is building as the timeline for Shohei Ohtani’s comeback to pitching starts to take shape.
At DodgerFest, manager Dave Roberts revealed that the organization expects Ohtani back on the mound by May.
He even hinted at the chance of an earlier return, although he firmly stated that Ohtani would not be involved in the Japan Series.
Spring Training and Recovery Update
Roberts explained that true evaluations of Ohtani’s readiness would occur during Spring Training, particularly when he begins his throwing program.
After sitting out last season following a UCL repair on his right elbow, Ohtani has been focused on recovery from a shoulder surgery he underwent in November.
He initiated a throwing routine in December, but it is considered “very unlikely” he will pitch in the season’s opening series against the Cubs in Tokyo.
However, there’s a silver lining: Ohtani is back to hitting and feels positive about his rehabilitation journey.
The Dodgers are facing a packed Spring Training schedule this year, a result of their World Series victory and the fast-approaching Tokyo Series.
Gradual Return and Team Strategy
Ohtani noted that this offseason has felt especially short, mainly due to the recent shoulder surgery adding to the challenges.
Fortunately, the injury impacts his non-throwing arm, which is less alarming than if it had involved his throwing shoulder.
Roberts expressed confidence in Ohtani’s recovery, having viewed recent training footage that shows him thriving in his post-surgery routine.
To accommodate Ohtani’s gradual return, the Dodgers have formulated a strategy employing a six-man rotation for their pitching staff.
They are also bolstered by fresh talent, including 23-year-old Roki Sasaki, who joined the team last month, ensuring a seamless transition as Ohtani works back to full strength.
Looking Ahead
As for how effectively Ohtani will perform upon his return, it’s important to recognize that he has dealt with elbow injuries before.
After undergoing his first Tommy John surgery in 2018, he faced several hurdles but went on to shine, posting an impressive 3.18 ERA over 23 starts in 2021.
It’s worth noting that his recovery from that initial surgery was unprecedented due to the pandemic’s impact on the season, making it difficult to draw direct comparisons to his current rehab.
Complicating matters further, shoulder surgery presents its unique set of challenges.
There has never been a player quite like Ohtani in Major League Baseball, and the Dodgers remain firmly confident in his exceptional abilities.
Freddie Freeman, also working through rehabilitation, shared his optimism about Ohtani’s shoulder recovery, suggesting that no matter the obstacles, Shohei’s resilience is sure to shine through.
In conclusion, fans can eagerly await Ohtani’s progress in recovery, supported by a dedicated team that wholeheartedly believes in his extraordinary talent.
An exciting season looms on the horizon for the Dodgers!
