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As the Los Angeles Dodgers prepare for the 2025 season, the spotlight is on superstar Shohei Ohtani, who is currently recovering from multiple surgeries. While fans are eager to see him take the mound, recent statements from Dodgers manager Dave Roberts indicate that Ohtani may not be ready to pitch by Opening Day in Japan.
This uncertainty has left many wondering about the implications for the team and Ohtani’s future performance.
Ohtani’s injury history and recovery process
Shohei Ohtani has been a force in Major League Baseball, known for his exceptional skills as both a pitcher and a hitter.
However, his journey has been marred by injuries. After undergoing elbow surgery in September 2023, Ohtani has not pitched since his time with the Angels. Recently, he also had arthroscopic surgery on his left shoulder, further complicating his recovery timeline.
According to Roberts, the likelihood of Ohtani being ready to pitch by March 18, when the Dodgers face the Cubs at the Tokyo Dome, is “very unlikely.” This cautious approach reflects the team’s commitment to Ohtani’s long-term health and performance.
The impact on the Dodgers’ lineup
Despite the setbacks, Ohtani is expected to contribute to the Dodgers as a designated hitter. His impressive stats from the previous season, where he boasted a .310 batting average, a .390 on-base percentage, and a .646 slugging percentage, highlight his value to the team.
Winning the MVP award unanimously and achieving the remarkable feat of hitting over 50 home runs while stealing 50 bases in a single season, Ohtani’s presence in the lineup is crucial. However, the Dodgers must navigate his rehabilitation carefully, balancing his recovery with the demands of the season.
What lies ahead for Ohtani and the Dodgers
As the Dodgers look to the future, the focus will be on Ohtani’s rehabilitation process. Manager Roberts emphasized the importance of maintaining Ohtani’s shoulder strength while integrating him back into pitching routines. The team will need to monitor his progress closely, ensuring that he can participate in hitters’ meetings and ramp up for at-bats as a designated hitter. The upcoming season will be a test of Ohtani’s resilience and the Dodgers’ ability to adapt to his evolving role. Fans are hopeful that with careful management, Ohtani will return to form and continue to dazzle on the field.
