Shohei Ohtani advances in his recovery to return to the mound, without neglecting his power with the bat
Shohei Ohtani’s 2025 season with the Los Angeles Dodgers has been nothing short of remarkable. While diligently working towards a return to pitching following his second Tommy John surgery, Ohtani continues to dominate offensively, solidifying his status as one of Major League Baseball’s most exceptional talents.
As of mid-May, Ohtani boasts a .304 batting average, leading the league with 17 home runs and accumulating 31 RBIs and 11 stolen bases. His OPS stands at an impressive 1.053, ranking third in the majors. Notably, Ohtani’s offensive metrics have improved compared to his 2024 MVP season, with his park-adjusted OPS (OPS+) now 94% better than the league average, up from 89% the previous year.
A highlight of his season occurred on May 15 during his own bobblehead night, where Ohtani hit two home runs and drove in six runs, leading the Dodgers to a 19-2 victory over the Oakland Athletics. This performance elevated his season totals to 15 home runs and 10 stolen bases, putting him on pace for a remarkable 55-36 season.
Ohtani’s journey back to the mound has seen significant milestones. In a recent development, he incorporated breaking pitches, such as sliders, into his throwing sessions—a crucial step in his rehabilitation process. This progression follows his steady increase in throwing volume, reaching up to 50 pitches in simulated game conditions. While the Dodgers have not set a definitive timeline for his return to pitching, a post-All-Star break debut remains the most likely scenario.
Ohtani’s dual-threat capabilities continue to captivate fans and analysts alike. His offensive prowess keeps the Dodgers competitive, while his impending return to pitching adds an exciting dimension to the team’s future. As he advances in his rehabilitation, the baseball world eagerly anticipates the full resurgence of one of the game’s most dynamic players.
