Shohei Ohtani’s Pitching Return Could Be as Soon as May for Dodgers

In a thrilling update for Los Angeles Dodgers fans, Shohei Ohtani is making a remarkable recovery and is on track to make his pitching return by May 2024. After undergoing shoulder surgery in November 2023, the two-way superstar is showing signs of a full recovery and could potentially take the mound for the Dodgers much sooner than expected. Here’s everything you need to know about Ohtani’s journey back to the mound and what this means for the Dodgers’ pitching staff.

Shohei Ohtani’s Path to Recovery: Shoulder Surgery and the Road Ahead

Shohei Ohtani, who last pitched in the majors in August 2023 with the Los Angeles Angels, has been recovering from left shoulder surgery after a dislocated shoulder incident during the World Series. The injury occurred on a stolen base attempt in Game 2 against the New York Yankees, which forced Ohtani to undergo a procedure on November 5, 2023.

Despite the severity of the surgery, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has expressed confidence in Ohtani’s swift recovery, noting that the Japanese sensation looks “really strong.” Roberts recently shared that after seeing recent videos of Ohtani’s workouts, it was hard to believe the player had undergone major shoulder surgery just a few months ago. With the Dodgers’ spring training camp set to open in Arizona on February 10, Ohtani is expected to be ready and on schedule for the upcoming season.

Ohtani’s Timeline: When Will He Return to the Mound?

While Ohtani is eager to make his return, the exact timeline for his first start remains uncertain. The Dodgers’ superstar confirmed that he is on track for spring training but cautioned that the shoulder surgery is more complex than the elbow surgery he underwent in September 2023. The shoulder injury required significant focus on improving range of motion and dealing with the residual effects in the labrum.

Although he can’t pinpoint exactly when he’ll be able to pitch in a major league game, Ohtani assured fans that the situation will become clearer once he throws his first bullpen session. That will give him and the team a better idea of when he’ll be ready to take the mound for the Dodgers.

Shohei Ohtani: A Key Addition for the Dodgers’ Championship Hopes

If Ohtani returns to form, the Dodgers’ rotation could see a major boost in 2024. A healthy Ohtani would not only provide one of the best hitters in the league but also a dominant pitcher capable of anchoring the staff. With Ohtani’s unique ability to impact both sides of the game, his return could make the Dodgers one of the most formidable teams in Major League Baseball, solidifying their championship aspirations.

Freddie Freeman and Clayton Kershaw: Injury Updates and What’s Next

Alongside Ohtani’s recovery, the Dodgers are also monitoring the progress of other key players. Freddie Freeman, the World Series MVP, is recovering from ankle surgery after partially chipping off cartilage. Although Freeman has started hitting again, he won’t be cleared to run for some time and doesn’t expect to appear in early spring training games. However, Freeman remains optimistic and is still on track to play in the Japan Series in March.

Meanwhile, Clayton Kershaw, the three-time Cy Young Award winner, is working through a throwing progression after undergoing foot and knee surgeries in November 2023. With his contract up for renewal, the 37-year-old veteran will play a key role in the Dodgers’ pitching staff in 2024, assuming he is fully healthy.

Kiké Hernández’s Return and Roberts’ Future with the Dodgers

Kiké Hernández, a fan-favorite utility player, is still under consideration for a potential return to the Dodgers. General Manager Brandon Gomes confirmed that the team is in discussions with Hernández, with the hope of making him part of their roster in 2024. Meanwhile, Dave Roberts, the manager who has led the Dodgers to four NL pennants and two World Series titles, is also in talks for an extension as he enters the final season of his current contract.

Dodgers 2024 Outlook: World Series or Bust?

With Ohtani’s anticipated return, alongside the recovery of Freddie Freeman, Clayton Kershaw, and potential additions like Kiké Hernández, the Los Angeles Dodgers are gearing up for a high-stakes 2024 season. If Ohtani can return to pitching by May, it could give the Dodgers’ pitching rotation the depth and versatility it needs to contend for another World Series title.

With everything falling into place, the Dodgers are looking at a season full of possibilities and the potential for greatness, especially with Shohei Ohtani leading the charge. Can Ohtani recover fully and help the Dodgers reach new heights? Time will tell, but one thing is certain: the 2024 season is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent years for the Los Angeles Dodgers.