For the first time since undergoing elbow ligament reconstruction surgery in September 2023, the Los Angeles Dodgers slugger and right-hander Shohei Ohtani is set to face live hitters on Saturday, according to manager Dave Roberts. The session will take place at Citi Field while LA is on the road facing the Mets, marking a significant step in Ohtani’s return to the mound.
Shohei Ohtani Inching Closer To Mound Debut For Los Angeles Dodgers
Ohtani has not pitched in a game since signing a record-breaking 10-year, $700 million contract with the Dodgers ahead of the 2024 season. Despite being limited to designated hitter duties, he’s had a stellar year at the plate, slashing .310/.390/.646 with 54 home runs and 130 RBIs en route to winning the NL MVP.
“The stuff looks good. It’s easy 94, 95 coming out of his hand,” Roberts said, noting Ohtani’s recent bullpen sessions. “We’re all anxious to see how it looks to hitters.”
Unlike typical rehab assignments, the Dodgers do not plan to send Ohtani to the minors due to his daily offensive contributions. Instead, he will continue facing hitters in simulated games as he ramps up toward eventual game action.
The timeline for his return to the mound remains uncertain, but Roberts expressed growing optimism. “I don’t see how he couldn’t feel that it’s starting to become more realistic,” he said.
Ohtani’s return would come at a crucial time for a Dodgers rotation beset by injuries to stars like Blake Snell and Tyler Glasnow. Still, Los Angeles leads the NL West with a 31-19 record, and their playoff odds are sky-high.
With postseason success as the goal, the team is prioritizing Ohtani’s long-term health—ensuring he’s ready when it matters most.