Shohei Ohtani prepares for epic pitching debut with Los Angeles Dodgers amid injury siege on roster

Shohei Ohtani’s impending return to the mound for the Los Angeles Dodgers marks a pivotal moment in the 2025 MLB season. After nearly two years of rehabilitation following a 2023 Tommy John surgery and a subsequent labrum repair, Ohtani is set to rejoin the pitching staff. This development is particularly timely, as the Dodgers face a significant roster challenge, with 14 pitchers currently on the injured list.(Reuters)

Ohtani’s unique ability to excel both as a pitcher and a hitter has been a defining feature of his career. In the 2024 season, he achieved a historic 50-50 milestone, hitting 54 home runs and stealing 59 bases, all while recovering from his elbow surgery. His performance earned him the National League MVP award, underscoring his value to the team. Despite the injury setbacks, Ohtani’s offensive prowess remains a cornerstone of the Dodgers’ lineup.(Reuters)

Ohtani’s rehabilitation journey has been meticulous. Initially, the Dodgers adopted a cautious approach, delaying his pitching progression to prioritize his long-term health and his role as a designated hitter. Manager Dave Roberts emphasized the importance of not overloading Ohtani’s workload, balancing his rehabilitation with his offensive duties. This strategy was a collaborative decision, involving input from Ohtani, the training staff, and medical professionals.(Reuters, Bleacher Report)

In May 2025, Ohtani took a significant step forward by pitching to live hitters for the first time since his surgeries. During a session at Citi Field, he showcased his full pitching arsenal, including fastballs, sweepers, cutters, and splitters, reaching speeds up to 97 mph. The session drew attention from various MLB personnel, highlighting the anticipation surrounding his return.(New York Post)

The Dodgers’ decision to reintegrate Ohtani into the pitching rotation is influenced by several factors. With a depleted pitching staff, his return offers a potential boost to the team’s performance. Additionally, Ohtani’s dual-threat capability allows for strategic flexibility, enabling the team to maximize his impact both on the mound and at the plate.

However, the Dodgers remain cautious, acknowledging the risks associated with Ohtani’s return. President of Baseball Operations Andrew Friedman emphasized the importance of ensuring Ohtani’s availability for a potential postseason run, suggesting that the team will continue to monitor his progression closely.(Reuters)

As the Dodgers approach the latter part of the season, Ohtani’s return to pitching could serve as a catalyst for the team’s performance. His presence on the mound, combined with his offensive contributions, positions the Dodgers to contend more effectively in the competitive MLB landscape.

In summary, Shohei Ohtani’s anticipated pitching debut with the Los Angeles Dodgers represents a significant development in the 2025 MLB season. His return not only addresses a critical need within the team’s pitching staff but also reaffirms his status as one of the most dynamic players in the league. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Ohtani to see how his dual-role performance influences the Dodgers’ pursuit of succ