Shohei Ohtani Takes Huge Step in Return to Pitching for Dodgers

Eva Geitheim | Mar 26, 2024

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Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani has taken a huge step in his eventual return to pitching as he began his throwing program on Monday. Despite the chaos of the gambling and theft scandal from his former interpreter Ippei Mizuhara and speaking to the media about it for the first time, Ohtani continued to progress on the field.

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts reacted to Ohtani's first day throwing, in which Ohtani was able to throw from 45 feet.

"First day, I think he got up to 45 feet. I think today was a positive day for Shohei," Roberts said, via SportsNet LA.

This is just the beginning of Ohtani's throwing recovery and progression as he returns from a torn UCL he sustained with the Los Angeles Angels in 2023. Ohtani is not expected to pitch until 2025, but could begin throwing in simulation games in September if his recovery continues on its current trajectory.

However, Ohtani could begin throwing in game action if the Dodgers opt to utilize him in the outfield. Ohtani has shown an interest in doing so by bringing his outfield glove to Spring Training and Roberts has not ruled out the possibility, but hitting remains the top focus for Ohtani.

Ohtani will spend the season as the designated hitter, where the two-time AL MVP, three-time All-Star and the 2023 AL Home run leader has lofty expectations. In 2023, Ohtani recorded the highest batting of his career — .304. Overall, Ohtani has hit .274 through his MLB career, along with 171 career home runs and 439 career RBIs. The Dodgers are hoping to see that production from their superstar in his first year with the team.