Shohei Ohtani’s Pitching Progression Takes Major Leap: The Wait is Almost Over
Shohei Ohtani, the Los Angeles Dodgers’ two-way superstar, is taking a significant step forward in his pitching recovery, raising anticipation for his long-awaited return to the mound. Since undergoing elbow surgery in September 2023, Ohtani has focused exclusively on his role as a designated hitter while carefully rehabbing his arm. Now, with the 2025 MLB season underway, reports indicate that Ohtani’s throwing program is progressing well, marking a major leap toward his comeback as a pitcher.
Ohtani’s Injury and Recovery
Ohtani’s road to recovery has been meticulously planned. After suffering a torn ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) in his right elbow during the 2023 season with the Los Angeles Angels, he underwent his second major elbow procedure. While the specifics of the surgery were not publicly disclosed as traditional Tommy John surgery, doctors have suggested that the procedure would allow him to pitch again in 2025. Given the Dodgers’ $700 million investment in Ohtani during the offseason, they have taken a cautious approach to ensure his full recovery.
In the months following the surgery, Ohtani has steadily increased his throwing intensity. While the Dodgers have not set a definitive timeline for his return to pitching, early projections indicated he could be back on the mound by May. However, manager Dave Roberts recently stated that Ohtani is set to begin throwing again soon, an encouraging development that suggests his recovery is on track.
Impact on the Dodgers’ Rotation
If Ohtani successfully returns to pitching in 2025, the Dodgers’ rotation will gain an enormous boost. The team already boasts a formidable pitching staff featuring stars like Tyler Glasnow, Walker Buehler, and Yoshinobu Yamamoto. Adding Ohtani’s electric arm back into the mix would give the Dodgers one of the most dominant rotations in baseball.
Despite being limited to hitting, Ohtani has already made an impact in the Dodgers’ lineup. During the Tokyo Series against the Chicago Cubs, he launched his first home run of the season, helping the Dodgers secure a 6-3 victory and complete a series sweep. His offensive production remains elite, making him one of the most dangerous hitters in the game. Once he returns to full two-way status, his value to the Dodgers will be even greater.
The Bigger Picture for Ohtani
Ohtani’s return to pitching is about more than just strengthening the Dodgers—it’s about solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest two-way players in baseball history. He has already won two American League MVP awards and continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in modern baseball.
While the Dodgers will continue to prioritize Ohtani’s health, his pitching progression marks an exciting milestone for the team and fans alike. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Ohtani’s recovery, with the hope that he will soon return to dominating both on the mound and at the plate.