Los Angeles — The long-awaited moment for the Dodgers is about to arrive: Shohei Ohtani will make his pitching debut this Monday against the Padres, in what will be his first start since August 2023.
Ever since signing the Japanese star to a record-breaking contract, the Los Angeles team has handled his return to the mound with caution, especially after undergoing Tommy John surgery, the second of his career, and an additional procedure on his left shoulder during this past offseason.
“The live sessions, simulated games, or whatever you want to call them have already run their course,” explained manager Dave Roberts following Sunday’s 5-4 victory over the Giants. “He is ready to make his debut from the mound,” quoted Sonja Chen of MLB.com.
In five seasons as an MLB pitcher, Ohtani holds a 3.01 ERA across 86 starts.
Although Ohtani is not yet ready to pitch full starts, the Dodgers plan to use him as a multi-inning “opener”. He may only work one inning in his first outing, Roberts noted.
Ohtani has been careful in his preparation as a pitcher. His last Major League start was on August 23, 2023, roughly a month before his right elbow ulnar collateral ligament surgery.
Since then, the team has followed a progressive plan. On May 25, he faced batters for the first time at Citi Field. Just 22 days later, he is ready to return to the mound wearing the Dodgers jersey.
In five seasons as an MLB pitcher, Ohtani has a 3.01 ERA in 86 starts. Although he will not take on a traditional starting role immediately, any contribution from the mound will be valuable for a team that has frequently relied on bullpen games.
image credits for this post: n.com.do
