Dodgers Aim to Avoid Shutting Down Shohei Ohtani During 2025 Season
Shohei Ohtani, the Los Angeles Dodgers’ prized two-way star, will make his long-awaited return to the mound in the 2025 season after missing the entirety of his first year with the team due to right elbow surgery. However, the Dodgers are being cautious in their approach to Ohtani’s pitching schedule, with the goal of avoiding the need to shut him down mid-season.
Shohei Ohtani’s Recovery and Delayed Pitching Debut
Although Ohtani expressed confidence that he could pitch on Opening Day during the Tokyo Series, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has been clear about the team’s cautious strategy. He explained, “I just don’t see us starting the clock in March to then think that we would keep that continuously going through October.” This approach, he noted, would require a break or reprieve in the middle of the season, which the team is keen to avoid.
As a result, Ohtani’s 2025 pitching debut is now expected to occur no earlier than May. This timeline ensures that the 30-year-old can complete the full season and postseason without risking an early shutdown to protect his innings.
Ohtani’s Stellar Pitching History
Before undergoing surgery, Ohtani last pitched in the 2023 season with the Los Angeles Angels, finishing with a 10-5 record, a 3.14 ERA, and a 1.06 WHIP in 132 innings. His performance was a significant factor in his second American League MVP award.
In 2022, Ohtani had a career-best season as a pitcher, recording a 2.33 ERA and 1.01 WHIP with 219 strikeouts over 166 innings, ranking sixth in both ERA and strikeouts across MLB. His return to pitching with the Dodgers adds another layer of excitement to an already impressive rotation that includes fellow stars such as Blake Snell, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, and Tyler Glasnow.
The Dodgers’ Pitching Rotation and Future Additions
The addition of Ohtani to the Dodgers’ rotation in 2025 will be a huge boost for the team, making them a dominant force on the mound. The Dodgers are also expected to re-sign Clayton Kershaw, which will further solidify their pitching depth. Additionally, the Dodgers are the favorites to sign Roki Sasaki, one of the most highly-touted pitchers in Japan.
Shohei Ohtani’s Recovery from Shoulder Surgery
While Ohtani’s return to the mound may be delayed, he is expected to be ready as the Dodgers’ designated hitter for the Tokyo Series. Ohtani underwent successful arthroscopic surgery to repair a labrum tear in his left shoulder this offseason, an injury that had initially been diagnosed as a left shoulder subluxation.
Nearly two months post-surgery, Ohtani is progressing well in his recovery. Dodgers general manager Brandon Gomes shared that Ohtani is “progressing well and continuing to check the boxes along the way.” Gomes added, “He’s in a good place, and we’ll keep seeing where he’s at as we get closer to Spring Training.”
Looking Ahead: Ohtani’s Impact on the Dodgers in 2025
As Shohei Ohtani prepares for his return to the 2025 season, the Dodgers are committed to managing his workload carefully. By ensuring that Ohtani’s pitching debut is delayed until May, the team hopes to avoid shutting him down mid-season, allowing him to contribute fully to their efforts during the regular season and the playoffs.
With his two-way abilities, Ohtani’s impact on the Dodgers will extend beyond the mound, as he continues to be a key asset both offensively and defensively. The team’s cautious approach is aimed at preserving Ohtani’s long-term health and ensuring that he remains a top performer throughout the entire season. As the 2025 season approaches, all eyes will be on Ohtani’s recovery and his return to the mound as the Dodgers look to capitalize on his elite talents.