Los Angeles Dodgers fans received electrifying news as manager Dave Roberts confirmed three-time MVP Shohei Ohtani will make his 2024 spring training debut Friday against the Los Angeles Angels. This marks Ohtani’s first game action since undergoing elbow surgery and shoulder rehabilitation, positioning the matchup as a critical milestone in his comeback journey.
Roberts emphasized Ohtani will exclusively serve as designated hitter initially, stating:
We’re optimistic about his progression, but pitching duties will wait until we’re certain of his readiness.Medical staff continues monitoring the two-way phenom’s recovery from last October’s World Series shoulder injury and September 2023 elbow procedure.
The historic Angels-Dodgers rivalry gains new dimensions as Ohtani faces his former team for the first time since signing a $700 million contract. Key details shaping this storyline:
- Ohtani’s unprecedented 2023 offensive stats: 54 HRs + 59 SBs
- 3.01 career ERA as pitcher before 2023 injury
- Projected late April return to mound
While excluded from Tokyo’s season-opening series, Ohtani’s spring training performance could redefine the Dodgers’ championship trajectory. His dual-threat capabilities remain unmatched in MLB history, with analysts calling his 50/50 season the most disruptive individual campaign since Babe Ruth.
Team physicians confirm Ohtani’s batting mechanics show no residual effects from shoulder rehabilitation. However, Roberts maintains caution about accelerating his pitching workload, prioritizing long-term performance over early-season theatrics.
