The Dodgers manager says Shohei Ohtani will soon make a significant advancement in his pitching career.

Shohei Ohtani, the Los Angeles Dodgers’ two-way superstar, is on the verge of a major milestone in his pitching career. After undergoing his second Tommy John surgery in September 2023, Ohtani has been steadily working toward his highly anticipated return to the mound. Recent comments from Dodgers manager Dave Roberts suggest that Ohtani’s progression is on track, with a potential return to pitching set for May 2025. This marks a significant step forward for Ohtani, who has already established himself as one of baseball’s most dynamic players.

The Journey Back to the Mound

Since his surgery, Ohtani has followed a meticulously planned rehabilitation schedule. The primary objective has been to ensure a full recovery without compromising his long-term health. Early speculation suggested that Ohtani could resume pitching by the start of the 2025 MLB season, but a cautious approach led the Dodgers to push his return to the mound back a few months.

Dave Roberts, in a statement made during spring training, acknowledged that Ohtani had not thrown off a mound since February 25. The team had temporarily paused his pitching rehab, prioritizing a gradual progression. However, Roberts reassured fans that this was not a setback but rather a precautionary measure to ensure Ohtani’s body fully adapts to the rigors of pitching again.

Ohtani’s Impact as a Two-Way Player

Ohtani’s ability to both pitch and hit at an elite level sets him apart from any other player in Major League Baseball. In 2024, while recovering from surgery, he was limited to serving as a designated hitter. Nevertheless, he continued to make history, becoming the first player to record 50 home runs and 50 stolen bases in a single season. His performance earned him another MVP award, further solidifying his status as one of the game’s greatest talents.

Once Ohtani resumes pitching, the Dodgers plan to transition from a traditional five-man rotation to a six-man system. This adjustment will not only accommodate Ohtani’s schedule but also provide additional rest for other pitchers, maximizing the team’s effectiveness over the long season.

The Dodgers’ Rotation and Ohtani’s Role

The Dodgers have made several strategic moves to bolster their pitching staff in anticipation of Ohtani’s return. Acquisitions like Yoshinobu Yamamoto, along with the return of veterans like Clayton Kershaw and Tony Gonsolin, give the team a deep and formidable rotation. When Ohtani returns, he is expected to slot in as one of the key starters, adding yet another dimension to an already potent Dodgers squad.

The team’s coaching staff has worked closely with Ohtani to fine-tune his mechanics and prepare him for the upcoming challenge. While he is not expected to throw a high volume of innings immediately upon his return, the goal is to gradually ramp up his workload to ensure sustained success.

Ohtani’s Perspective on His Comeback

Ohtani has maintained a positive outlook throughout his rehabilitation. In interviews, he has expressed confidence in his ability to return stronger than ever. Teammates and coaches have also praised his dedication and work ethic, noting that he has been meticulous in following his recovery plan.

Dodgers pitcher Landon Knack, who has observed Ohtani’s workouts, recently remarked, “Ohtani looks really good as a pitcher. He’s taking everything step by step and making sure he’s in the best shape possible before he gets back on the mound.” This level of preparation suggests that Ohtani’s return to pitching will be a well-calculated process, ensuring he remains a dominant force in the league.

A Historic Moment in Baseball

The baseball world is eagerly awaiting Ohtani’s return to the mound. His unique ability to excel as both a pitcher and a hitter makes him one of the most extraordinary players in the history of the sport. If he successfully reintegrates into the Dodgers’ rotation, it will mark another historic achievement in his already legendary career.

For now, the focus remains on ensuring that Ohtani is fully prepared for this next phase. With a carefully managed approach and the support of the Dodgers organization, his return to pitching is poised to be one of the most significant storylines of the 2025 MLB season. Fans can expect to witness another thrilling chapter in the career of a player who continues to redefine what is possible in baseball.