OMG! Ohtani's Dodger Debut Finally Here!

2025-06-16 18:01:09.18

The Los Angeles Dodgers announced that two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani will make his first start for the team on Monday night against the San Diego Padres. This marks the end of a 663-day absence from pitching for Ohtani, who last pitched on August 23, 2023, for the Los Angeles Angels. Ohtani's return has been highly anticipated, with Dodgers manager Dave Roberts initially suggesting his return wouldn't be until after the All-Star break. Despite this, Ohtani has been progressing through simulated and live pitching sessions. Roberts confirmed Ohtani is ready for a major league game, and that this start will be an opener role, not a full starter's workload. Ohtani's unique two-way status means he doesn't count against the team's 13-pitcher roster limit. His return comes after undergoing a procedure to repair the ulnar collateral ligament in his right elbow in September 2023, and subsequent left shoulder surgery. Despite the injuries and extensive recovery, Ohtani had an exceptional 2023 season, achieving record-breaking feats and winning his third unanimous MVP award. He expressed a desire to return to his previous form as a two-way player, aiming to make this year's performance the exception, not the rule.