As Shohei Ohtani gears up for yet another chapter in his illustrious career, the Los Angeles Dodgers find themselves navigating a landscape filled with both promise and prudence. Coming off what could arguably be considered one of the most remarkable seasons in Major League Baseball history, Ohtani stands on the cusp of returning to the diamond following significant medical procedures. The buzz surrounding his return is palpable, and rightly so. However, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has made it clear that the team's approach will be a careful one.
Post-Surgery Comeback
Ohtani's rehabilitation journey began following elbow surgery in the fall of 2023, coupled with an additional procedure to address issues with his non-pitching shoulder. These dual surgeries have inevitably raised questions about how the Japanese sensation will re-integrate into Los Angeles's star-studded lineup. While Ohtani is expected to be ready to display his formidable hitting prowess at the commencement of the 2025 season, his pitching timeline appears a bit more protracted.
Roberts has been candid regarding Ohtani's expected roles. "It's 'unlikely' that Ohtani will pitch during the Dodgers' opening series in Japan," he remarked, effectively ruling out the possibility of fans witnessing Ohtani on the mound in his homeland when the Dodgers take the field in late March 2025. Instead, the focus will be on ensuring that Ohtani's health is preserved, and his transition back to pitching occurs without unnecessary haste.
Entering 2025 With Momentum
The Dodgers have every reason to proceed cautiously. Not only is Ohtani a prized asset under a sprawling $700 million contract, but his contribution last season was nothing short of seismic. Securing his third MVP award in four years, Ohtani delivered a stellar offensive line: a .310 batting average, paired with a .390 on-base percentage and a slugging percentage of .646. His ability to split defenses apart was further augmented by 38 doubles, seven triples, and an eye-popping 54 home runs.
Ohtani's numbers were complemented by his 130 RBIs and a runs tally of 134, establishing him not merely as a hitter of power but efficiency. His dual-threat capability was further underscored by stealing 59 bases and achieving a Wins Above Replacement (WAR) of 9.2. Remarkably, Ohtani became the first player in MLB history to achieve a 50-50 season, earning MVP honors predominantly from his role as a designated hitter — a testament to his versatility and endurance.
A Carefully Managed Pitching Role
In terms of pitching, Ohtani's 2023 record was impressive, finishing 10-5 with a 3.14 ERA, 1.06 WHIP, and 167 strikeouts over 132 innings. As the Dodgers look to the forthcoming season, Roberts has articulated a premium on flexibility with regard to the workload shouldered by Ohtani on the mound. “The team will be 'nimble' with Ohtani's pitching workload," Roberts noted, citing a target of approximately 150 innings across the regular season, a figure suited to his post-operation context.
Nonetheless, with additions like Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Tyler Glasnow, and Blake Snell, the Dodgers' rotation is primed for impact. Complementing these newcomers are returning arms Tony Gonsolin and Dustin May, each integral to ensuring the Dodgers maintain their trajectory as World Series contenders. The prowess and depth of Los Angeles's pitching roster were evident last year, leading to a championship secured with a mere trio of starting pitchers.
Balancing Expectations and Opportunities
As anticipation mounts for Shohei Ohtani’s return — both on the mound and at the plate — the Dodgers find themselves at a confluence of expectation and strategic opportunity. With a rotation that promises depth and a lineup bolstered by historically potent offense, Los Angeles is well-positioned to chart new successes in 2025. Ohtani's comeback will inevitably play a central role, wielding the power to sway games with his bat, his feet, and soon, once again, with his pitching.
In a landscape where talent is abundant yet rarefied, Ohtani’s influence transcends conventional metrics, embodying both the allure and the rigor of baseball’s grandest stage. As he prepares to return, the baseball world waits with bated breath, eager to witness how this next chapter unfolds.