Exciting Comeback: Shohei Ohtani Returns to the Mound Against the Padres – ‘It’s Time to Go!’

LOS ANGELES — The Los Angeles Dodgers have been cautious with Shohei Ohtani’s return to the mound after his major elbow surgery. They’ve taken their time, and now, the wait is finally over. Ohtani is back and ready to pitch again.

The organization announced Sunday that Ohtani will be the opener against the San Diego Padres. This marks his pitching debut for the Dodgers, 20 months after his surgery. He will likely pitch just one inning as he eases back into the game. This strategy is a bit unusual but critical for keeping his strong bat in the lineup.

“He’s ready to pitch in a major-league game,” said Dodgers manager Dave Roberts, confirming Ohtani’s readiness.

On Saturday, Ohtani felt confident, stating, “I felt like the intensity was there and my stuff was game-ready,” through interpreter Will Ireton.

The Dodgers have been careful with Ohtani’s rehab, gradually increasing his workload. He only faced live hitters for the first time on May 25. During that session, he reached 97 mph pitching against teammates. In just a few weeks, he moved from throwing 22 pitches to 44 in a three-inning display at Petco Park, where he also demonstrated strong intensity and adaptability by using a pitch clock and PitchCom device.

Roberts hinted that Ohtani might be ready sooner than expected, possibly before the All-Star break. Ohtani seemed to agree, saying, “Something like that,” when asked about the timeline.

By Sunday morning, Roberts mentioned that one more simulated game might be all Ohtani needs. After a game on Sunday where Ohtani excelled as a designated hitter, the team confirmed his return.

The Dodgers uniquely benefit from Ohtani’s two-way talent. Since he’s listed as a two-way player, they can carry 14 active pitchers instead of the usual 13. This allows them to maintain their regular pitching staff while integrating Ohtani into the lineup.

While Ohtani is expected to pitch only one inning at first, this will allow him to gradually build up his stamina. For a Dodgers team struggling with injuries, having Ohtani is a significant boost.

Thanks to the “Ohtani rule,” even after he pitches, he can remain in the game as a designated hitter. Fans can anticipate a seamless transition from mound to batter’s box, with just seconds in between.

It has been 17 months since Ohtani signed his record-setting 10-year, $700 million deal. Fans have enjoyed his remarkable hitting, winning him his third MVP award and making history last season by being the first player to hit 50 home runs and steal 50 bases in one year. He’s now leading the National League with 25 home runs this season.

Excitement is palpable for this upcoming game. As Roberts said, “It’s going to be bananas when it happens. We’ve done it the right way in terms of communication and process. When it does happen, it’s going to be great for the game and our team, and most importantly, I’m excited for Shohei.”

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Los Angeles Dodgers, MLB