Dodgers manager Dave Roberts confirmed Shohei Ohtani likely won’t return to pitching in the major leagues until after the All-Star break, delaying his comeback from injury.

The Los Angeles Dodgers, one of Major League Baseball’s flagship franchises, have been eagerly awaiting the return of their superstar two-way player, Shohei Ohtani. Known for his historic combination of pitching and hitting prowess, Ohtani has been sidelined by injury, leaving a significant hole in the Dodgers’ pitching rotation and lineup. Recently, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts delivered sobering news: Ohtani likely will not make his much-anticipated major league mound return until after the All-Star break, further delaying his comeback.

This development has profound implications for the Dodgers’ season, pitching staff management, and the team’s overall playoff aspirations. It also raises questions about Ohtani’s recovery timeline, his role moving forward, and how the Dodgers plan to navigate the months ahead without one of baseball’s most dynamic players on the mound.

Shohei Ohtani: A Baseball Phenomenon

Shohei Ohtani’s arrival in Major League Baseball revolutionized the sport’s expectations for two-way players. His rare ability to dominate both as a pitcher and hitter draws comparisons to legendary figures like Babe Ruth, but Ohtani’s skills are uniquely modern—combining blazing fastballs, devastating breaking pitches, and powerful hitting in a way few have ever matched.

Since joining the Dodgers, Ohtani has been a cornerstone of the team’s success, contributing significantly both on the mound and at the plate. His presence forces opposing managers into difficult decisions and changes game strategies due to his dual-threat capabilities.

Injury setbacks, however, have interrupted what many hoped would be a historic season, making his return to pitching highly anticipated.

The Injury and Recovery Timeline

Ohtani’s injury issues have been a source of concern for the Dodgers and their fans. While specific details about the nature and severity of his injury have been closely guarded, reports indicate that Ohtani has been dealing with shoulder inflammation and soreness, a condition that requires careful management to avoid long-term damage.

Since being sidelined, Ohtani has been undergoing a carefully monitored rehabilitation program focusing on reducing inflammation, rebuilding arm strength, and gradually ramping up pitching activity.

Despite steady progress, the Dodgers’ medical staff and coaching team have prioritized caution. This approach aligns with Ohtani’s value not just as a pitcher, but as a critical two-way player whose long-term health is paramount to the team’s aspirations.

Dave Roberts’ Statement: Managing Expectations

Following recent assessments of Ohtani’s recovery progress, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts confirmed that the star pitcher’s return to the mound likely won’t happen until after the All-Star break, which typically occurs in mid-July.

Roberts expressed understanding of fans’ excitement but emphasized the importance of patience. “Shohei’s health comes first. We want him to be fully ready and able to contribute at his best,” Roberts said. “Rushing him back could jeopardize not just his pitching season but his overall role on this team.”

This cautious stance highlights the balancing act the Dodgers face—eager to maximize Ohtani’s impact while safeguarding his future.

Impact on the Dodgers’ Pitching Staff

Ohtani’s absence from the pitching rotation leaves a significant gap that the Dodgers have had to address creatively.

Rotation Adjustments

Without Ohtani’s expected innings, the Dodgers have leaned on their existing rotation of arms, including veterans and younger pitchers stepping into larger roles. Names like Blake Snell, Tyler Glasnow, and Clayton Kershaw have been expected to carry heavier workloads, though injuries to some of these pitchers have compounded the challenge.

The team has also increased bullpen usage to cover innings typically handled by starters, raising concerns about fatigue and effectiveness—issues manager Dave Roberts openly acknowledged in recent comments.

Bullpen Strain and Overuse

With starters missing time and Ohtani sidelined, the bullpen has been overtaxed, appearing in a high percentage of innings early in the season. This strain risks increased injury and diminished performance, complicating Roberts’ task of managing the pitching staff.

Offensive Contributions from Ohtani

While Ohtani’s pitching return is delayed, his presence in the lineup as a hitter remains a critical factor. Known for his power and run production, Ohtani continues to impact games from the batter’s box, providing the Dodgers with a potent offensive weapon.

This dual contribution ensures that while his pitching return is pending, Ohtani’s overall value to the team remains high.

Strategic Implications and Roster Management

The Dodgers’ front office faces difficult decisions on how best to navigate the team through Ohtani’s pitching absence.

Potential Moves

• Acquiring Pitching Depth: The Dodgers may explore trades or free agent signings to add arms to the rotation or bullpen.
• Promoting Minor League Arms: Several promising pitchers in the Dodgers’ farm system could receive opportunities to contribute at the major league level.
• Managing Workloads: Careful management of innings and pitcher roles will be crucial to maintaining staff health.

Long-Term Outlook

The team remains optimistic about Ohtani’s eventual return, hoping that with time, he will regain full strength and contribute significantly during the second half and postseason.

Fans and Media Reaction

News of the delayed return has elicited mixed reactions from fans and media. Many express disappointment but appreciate the team’s cautious approach. Analysts emphasize that protecting Ohtani’s health is paramount given his unique role and irreplaceable talents.

Media coverage has also highlighted the challenge facing the Dodgers’ front office and coaching staff, focusing on how they adapt to maintain competitiveness without Ohtani’s pitching presence.

Ohtani’s Historical Context and Importance

Ohtani’s impact transcends traditional player roles. His two-way excellence is a rarity in modern baseball, and his health is central not just to the Dodgers but to the broader MLB landscape.

His recovery and return will be closely watched not only by Dodgers fans but by baseball enthusiasts worldwide, making his journey a focal storyline of the 2025 season.

Conclusion: Patience and Optimism

While Shohei Ohtani’s delayed pitching return until after the All-Star break is disappointing, it underscores the Dodgers’ commitment to his long-term health and effectiveness. Manager Dave Roberts’ candid remarks reflect a pragmatic approach in balancing immediate needs with future goals.

The Dodgers remain a talented, resilient team capable of adapting to challenges. With strategic roster moves, solid pitching performances from others, and Ohtani’s continued offensive contributions, the team aims to maintain momentum heading into the critical second half.

Ohtani’s eventual return to the mound promises to inject excitement and firepower back into the Dodgers’ rotation, potentially reshaping their postseason prospects.

For now, patience is the watchword as Shohei Ohtani continues his recovery, with the baseball world eagerly awaiting the day the two-way star takes the mound once again for the Los Angeles Dodgers.