Due to his recovery from Tommy John surgery, Shohei Ohtani did not pitch during the 2024 season. Following his National League MVP season, his Dodgers pitching debut is eagerly awaited.
However, in Game 2 of the World Series against the New York Yankees, Ohtani hurt his left shoulder while stealing a base. Despite playing through the injury, the 2024 NL All-Star had labrum surgery soon after the World Series. Luckily, his non-throwing shoulder was the site of the injury.
The 2025 season is not anticipated to be impacted by the recuperation following the procedure. However, Ohtani stated that in order to make sure he is completely healthy before throwing, the team would exercise patience during his recuperation.
Being prepared for Opening Day is the aim. That encompasses both pitching and hitting,” Ohtani stated. Our pace is a little slow. Naturally, we want to start by ensuring my health. We won’t hurry things along. After talking about my shoulder, I believe we will be cautious and take a little longer to ensure my health before I return to the mound.
Ohtani’s health will improve the Dodgers’ starting lineup. Ohtani reached the 155-strikeout mark each year and recorded ERAs below 4.00 in his final three seasons with the Los Angeles Angels. Ohtani was chosen for the American League All-Star squad each of the three seasons. He was also voted the AL MVP in 2021 and 2023.
Ohtani’s at-bat performance this season is self-evident. He was the first MVP in either league to be named a primary designated hitter. Along with Frank Robinson (1961, 1966), he became the second player in MLB history to win MVP in both leagues.
Next season, Tony Gonsolin and Yoshinobu Yamamoto will join Ohtani in the rotation. Dustin May and Tyler Glasnow are also anticipated to return for the 2025 season.
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