As the Los Angeles Dodgers prepare for the 2025 season, much attention is focused on superstar Shohei Ohtani, who is currently recovering from multiple surgeries. Fans are eagerly anticipating his return, but there are concerns about whether he will be ready to pitch by Opening Day in Japan. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has expressed doubt about Ohtani’s ability to take the mound by March 18, when the team is scheduled to face the Cubs at the Tokyo Dome. This uncertainty has raised questions about the team’s expectations and Ohtani’s future performance.
Ohtani has long been a standout player in Major League Baseball, celebrated for his exceptional ability to both pitch and hit. However, his career has been hindered by injuries, with his most recent setbacks including elbow surgery in September 2023 and an arthroscopic procedure on his left shoulder. These surgeries have complicated his recovery timeline, making it unlikely that Ohtani will be ready to pitch by the start of the 2025 season. The Dodgers are adopting a cautious approach, prioritizing Ohtani’s long-term health and performance over rushing him back to the mound.
Despite these challenges, Ohtani is still expected to contribute to the Dodgers as a designated hitter. His remarkable performance in the previous season, including a .310 batting average, a .390 on-base percentage, and a .646 slugging percentage, underscores his value to the team. Ohtani also won the MVP award unanimously and made history by hitting over 50 home runs and stealing 50 bases in a single season. The Dodgers will rely on his offensive skills as they manage his rehabilitation and recovery process, carefully balancing his health with the demands of the season.
Looking ahead, the Dodgers’ focus will be on Ohtani’s rehabilitation. Manager Roberts emphasized the importance of maintaining Ohtani’s shoulder strength while gradually integrating him back into pitching routines. This process will involve closely monitoring his progress, allowing him to participate in hitters’ meetings, and ramping up his at-bats as a designated hitter. The upcoming season will be a test for Ohtani’s resilience as well as the Dodgers’ ability to adapt to his changing role, ensuring that he can contribute to the team’s success while prioritizing his recovery.
Ultimately, the Dodgers and their fans are hopeful that with careful management, Ohtani will return to his peak form, both as a hitter and potentially as a pitcher later in the season. His return will be critical for the team’s championship aspirations, and the Dodgers will need to navigate his injury recovery with patience and precision. With Ohtani’s potential still immense, the 2025 season will be a pivotal year for both him and the team as they work to make the most of his extraordinary talents.
