Shohei Ohtani took a critical step toward his Dodgers pitching return Tuesday with a second spring training bullpen session. The two-way phenom last pitched in August 2023 before undergoing elbow surgery, but his eyes remain fixed on 2024 mound appearances.
Ohtani’s rehab protocol now blends bullpen work with batting practice as he recovers from dual injuries: a repaired UCL and a partially torn labrum suffered during the World Series. ‘The medical team prioritizes long-term health over rushed timelines,’ an AP source notes. Still, the 30-year-old’s fastball touched 94 mph Saturday – nearing his pre-surgery velocity.
Despite last season’s physical limits, Ohtani dominated at the plate:
- 54 HR and 59 SB (first 50/50 season in MLB history)
- .301 batting average with 1.066 OPS
- Third AL MVP award since 2021
‘He redefined excellence while essentially playing on one leg,’Dodgers manager Dave Roberts told press. The team’s World Series victory came despite Ohtani’s September shoulder injury from a risky slide.
Pitching metrics reveal why his comeback matters:
Career 3.01 ERA and 11.4 K/9 rate prove Ohtani’s dual-threat value. His 2023 stats (10-5 record, 3.14 ERA) positioned him as Cy Young contender before the elbow injury. Analysts suggest a mid-season return could transform LA’s rotation depth for playoff pushes.
Ohtani’s $700M contract includes performance bonuses tied to pitching milestones, adding financial urgency to his rehab. With Yamamoto and Glasnow now in the rotation, the Dodgers could limit his innings initially. Team physicians confirm both the UCL repair and labrum have healed structurally, though muscle rebuilding continues.
As spring training progresses, all eyes track Ohtani’s bullpen velocity and recovery metrics. His ability to balance hitting duties with pitching rehab could reshape modern athlete recovery protocols.
