A Precautionary Approach to Ohtani’s Return
A month ago, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts was optimistic about Shohei Ohtani’s return to the pitching rotation by May. However, as of Thursday, his outlook has shifted. Ohtani, the dynamic two-way star who missed the entire 2023 season while recovering from Tommy John surgery, has not thrown a bullpen session since February 25. This change is a result of a collective and precautionary decision aimed at preventing him from overexerting himself as he prepares for Opening Day as a designated hitter. The team has been consistently cautious, emphasizing the importance of ensuring Ohtani is at full strength by the end of the season, particularly for the playoffs. The manager explained, "It’s very nuanced with him. We just want to make sure we don’t push something we don’t need to."
The Context of Ohtani’s Recovery
All offseason, the Dodgers have signaled that they would take a careful approach to Ohtani’s pitching rehabilitation, which has been ongoing since his second Tommy John surgery in September 2023. Ohtani also underwent surgery to repair a torn labrum in his non-throwing left shoulder this offseason, further complicating his recovery. The team’s goal has always been to maximize his unique talents for the crucial stretch run of the regular season and potentially beyond into the playoffs. Roberts acknowledged the complexity, stating, "It’s not just about getting him back on the mound; it’s about ensuring he’s fully recovered and ready to perform at his best."
Initial Progress and Setbacks
During the first three weeks of spring camp, Ohtani threw four bullpen sessions and participated in regular catch play in the outfield. Roberts had previously noted the seemingly "seamless" progress Ohtani was making, expressing surprise at how quickly he had been recovering given the two surgeries. However, after the Feb. 25 bullpen session, where Ohtani focused on throwing four-seam, two-seam, and cut fastballs while re-incorporating a wind-up into his delivery, the team decided to give him a break from the intensive rehab. Roberts explained, "It was a decision made through conversation with Shohei, our training staff, and the doctors. All of it kind of synced up." This pause in his throwing program is intended to manage his workload more effectively as he returns to game action as a hitter.
Ohtani’s Batting Performance
While Ohtani’s pitching timeline remains uncertain, his performance at the plate has been nothing short of impressive. He hit a home run in his first at-bat of the spring and has collected at least one hit in all four games he has played. On Thursday, Ohtani recorded his first multi-hit performance of the camp, doubling in the first inning and singling in the sixth during the Dodgers’ 8-4 win over the Texas Rangers. Roberts praised Ohtani’s game, saying, "Really good. Shohei’s in a good spot." As a hitter, Ohtani is expected to continue increasing his workload before the team departs for its season-opening trip to Japan. He is scheduled to play again on Saturday and will make back-to-back starts for the first time this spring on Monday and Tuesday.
The Evolving Plan
Despite the recent changes, the Dodgers remain committed to Ohtani’s overall health and long-term success. Roberts clarified that the plan is to ramp up Ohtani’s pitching activities but emphasized that the timing remains unclear. "It doesn’t make sense to intensify the bullpens alongside the intensity of the games," he said. "We just want to take it step by step." The manager also stressed that the team is closely monitoring Ohtani’s physical condition, especially considering the dual surgeries he has undergone. "We’re being very careful and making sure we’re not putting any unnecessary strain on him," Roberts added.
Keeping Expectations Realistic
Ohtani’s return to two-way duties has been highly anticipated, making any delay in his throwing program notable. Roberts is cautious about setting expectations, both for the media and for Ohtani himself. "We just don’t want to put any kind of expectation on you guys, or Shohei," he said. The manager emphasized that the team will wait until Ohtani is fully ready before reintroducing him to pitching in the majors. This approach reflects the Dodgers’ commitment to prioritizing Ohtani’s health and well-being over short-term gains. As the spring training progresses, the team will continue to assess his progress and adjust his program accordingly.
A Bright Future Ahead
While the timeline for Ohtani’s return to the mound may be less defined, his immediate impact as a hitter is evident. The Dodgers’ cautious approach underscores their respect for Ohtani’s unique talents and the importance of his full recovery. As the team prepares for the season, the focus will remain on ensuring Ohtani is in the best possible condition to contribute in both capacities. Fans and observers alike can take comfort in the fact that Ohtani is making solid strides, and his potentially explosive return to the mound could still be a highlight of the season. For now, the Dodgers and Ohtani are on the same page, committed to a careful and sustainable comeback.
