Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts recently hinted that Shohei Ohtani’s next pitching outing could come as soon as this weekend. According to a report by The Athletic’s Fabian Ardaya, Roberts suggested that Ohtani might take the mound against the Washington Nationals on Saturday or Sunday.
Los Angeles Dodgers Think Shohei Ohtani Could Pitch This Weekend
This timeline depends heavily on how Ohtani performs in an upcoming bullpen session scheduled for later this week. Roberts explained that the team will have a clearer picture of Ohtani’s readiness after that workout, signaling a cautious but hopeful approach to the star pitcher’s comeback.
Ohtani, who recently made his first pitching appearance since undergoing a second Tommy John surgery, pitched one inning against the San Diego Padres. While he wasn’t entirely satisfied with his performance, he expressed optimism about pitching again soon. “That’s my expectation,” Ohtani said through an interpreter, adding that he reached 100 mph during his outing and wants to see how his body reacts.
Bringing Ohtani back onto the mound adds a vital weapon to a Dodgers pitching staff that has faced its share of injuries this season. His unique ability as both a dominant pitcher and a powerful hitter makes his return highly anticipated.
If Ohtani can pitch again this weekend, it would be a significant milestone in his recovery and a major boost for the Dodgers as they push deeper into the season.