BREAKING: Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said there’s a chance Shohei Ohtani returns to pitching before the All-Star break
In a significant development for the Los Angeles Dodgers, manager Dave Roberts has indicated that there is a possibility Shohei Ohtani could return to pitching before the All-Star break. This announcement comes after Ohtani’s recent simulated game, where he threw 44 pitches over three innings, recording six strikeouts and reaching the mid-90s with his fastball .
Ohtani, who underwent Tommy John surgery in September 2023, has been progressing steadily in his rehabilitation. His recent simulated game represents a significant step forward, as it was his third such session since the surgery. While the Dodgers have not set a definitive date for his return to the mound, Roberts’ comments suggest that the team is cautiously optimistic about Ohtani’s potential to pitch in a major league game before the All-Star break.
Roberts emphasized the importance of a measured approach, stating, “We just felt that to intensify the bullpens alongside of the intensity of the games wasn’t smart, so we just wanted to kind of slow-play it.” This strategy aims to ensure that Ohtani is fully prepared and healthy when he returns to pitching duties.
The Dodgers are currently facing challenges with their pitching staff, with several key pitchers on the injured list. The potential return of Ohtani to the rotation could provide a significant boost to the team’s pitching depth. However, the Dodgers are committed to a cautious and deliberate rehabilitation process to ensure Ohtani’s long-term health and effectiveness on the mound.
While there is no official timeline for Shohei Ohtani’s return to pitching, the recent developments indicate positive progress. The Dodgers are taking a careful approach to his rehabilitation, balancing the need for his contributions on the mound with the importance of his overall health. As the All-Star break approaches, fans and analysts alike will be closely monitoring Ohtani’s progress, hopeful for his return to pitching in the near future.
