The Los Angeles Dodgers superstar Shohei Ohtani is closer to toeing the rubber this season, according to Fabian Ardaya of The Athletic. The two-way player has missed a year and change on the mound recovering from his second Tommy John surgery. Ohtani is slated to face hitters in batting practice on Sunday (originally scheduled for Saturday). This is his first major step in returning to a major-league mound since going under the knife in 2023.
Dave Roberts wasn’t sure on the logistics of how it will all work, but the Dodgers don’t expect Ohtani to go on a minor league rehab assignment as he builds up. Angels did it with simulated games after his first TJ. https://t.co/cwUlXCMCo7
— Fabian Ardaya (@FabianArdaya) May 23, 2025
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With tonight’s late ending, Shohei Ohtani’s live BP has been pushed back to Sunday https://t.co/iCF5cUsPOm
— Jack Harris (@ByJackHarris) May 24, 2025
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Shohei Ohtani Takes Next Step Toward Pitching Return for Dodgers
A Definite Maybe?
It is clear that the Dodgers are slow-walking Ohtani’s return to pitching. Shohei himself was reluctant to give a timeline when asked about it in spring training. As for manager Dave Roberts, he was unsure how they were going to handle Ohtani’s continued rehab. It is clear that the reigning National League Most Valuable Player will not be going on a minor-league rehab assignment, because his bat is simply too valuable. He proved that last year when he became the first player ever in baseball history to hit 50 home runs and steal 50 bases.
A Reprise
While throwing bullpen sessions, Ohtani is once again tied for the major league lead in home runs and in the top 10 in stolen bases. In addition, with his side work, Ohtani has progressed from throwing solely heat to adding breaking balls and sliders as well. This may be a sign that his return to the mound is closer than it may appear, but the role remains unclear.
Other Good News
Starter Tyler Glasnow, who has been sidelined with a shoulder injury for a few weeks, threw a 20-pitch bullpen today. He said he “felt great.” According to witnesses, Glasnow “was getting after it pretty good.”
Pivotal Road Ahead
The Dodgers could use some good news right now. They are about to embark on a 20-game gauntlet facing winning teams who could be postseason opponents. Los Angeles is going to find out if they will sink or swim. And it starts tonight against the New York Mets tonight in Queens.
Photo Credit: © Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
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