Shohei Ohtani has yet to take the mound for the Los Angeles Dodgers. The last time he toed the rubber was in 2023 — season was a testament to his extraordinary two-way dominance. While primarily focused on his offensive exploits that year, he also showcased his exceptional pitching prowess, compiling a 3.14 ERA with 167 strikeouts and only 55 walks in 132 innings of work.
His 2022 campaign, however, stands as the pinnacle of his pitching career. That season, Ohtani emerged as a Cy Young Award contender, finishing fourth in the voting. He showcased unparalleled command, striking out 219 batters while issuing only 44 walks. His impressive 2.33 ERA, 166 innings pitched, and a career-high 6.2 WAR solidified his status as one of the most electrifying pitchers in Major League Baseball.
Shohei Ohtani Won’t Pitch During Los Angeles Dodgers Spring Training
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Dodgers manager Dave Roberts told reporters Wednesday that although there is no timetable for Ohtani to start his bullpen sessions, the two-way phenom should be pitching “sooner rather than later.” However, he won’t pitch in Cactus League games.
Roberts said during DodgerFest that Ohtani is likely to return to the mound in May.
While many are excited to see the LA Dodgers spring training in part to witness the progress of Ohtani’s injury, it seems they will have to wait a few more months.
Roberts also announced that Yoshinobu Yamamoto would get the opening day nod against the Chicago Cubs in Japan.