Shohei Ohtani's Comeback: Eyes on 2025
As Shohei Ohtani continues his journey to recovery from elbow and shoulder surgeries, the baseball world watches closely, anticipating the impact he will have on the diamond in the upcoming season. The 30-year-old phenom, fresh off his third MVP award in four years, is set to take the field with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2025, albeit in a slightly reduced capacity than fans might be accustomed to.
Ohtani's surgeries, conducted in the fall of 2023, have set the stage for an intriguing storyline. While Ohtani has been one of baseball's most electrifying dual threats — dominating both as a pitcher and a hitter — the Dodgers have made it clear that they will be cautious with his return to the mound. According to Manager Dave Roberts, "It's 'unlikely' that Ohtani will pitch during the Dodgers' opening series in Japan on March 18 and 19, 2025." This decision aligns with the team's strategy to be "nimble" with his pitching workload, aiming for around the 150-inning mark for the regular season.
A Bat to Watch in 2025
While Ohtani may not immediately showcase his pitching prowess, Dodgers fans can take solace in the fact that he is expected to be ready to hit at the start of the season. His offensive statistics from the previous year underscore his significance to the lineup. Ohtani boasted a .310 batting average, a .390 on-base percentage, and a staggering .646 slugging percentage, securing his reputation as one of the league’s most potent hitters.
Adding to his impressive resume, Ohtani recorded 38 doubles, seven triples, and an incredible 54 home runs. His remarkable blend of power and speed was further highlighted by his 59 stolen bases, culminating in a 9.2 WAR (Wins Above Replacement) season. With 130 RBIs and 134 runs, his contributions were invaluable in earning the MVP honors, an accolade primarily achieved as a designated hitter.
A Bolstered Dodgers Rotation
The Dodgers enter the 2025 season with a strengthened pitching rotation, which alleviates the immediate need for Ohtani's services on the mound. The rotation includes standout talents like Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Tyler Glasnow, and Blake Snell, ensuring the team remains competitive at the pinnacle of the sport. Additionally, returning pitchers Tony Gonsolin and Dustin May are expected to provide crucial depth, complementing the staff’s overall strength.
The Dodgers clinched the World Series last season with just three starting pitchers, a testament to their adaptability and depth. With a $700 million investment in Ohtani, the team is banking on his long-term impact, prioritizing his health and effectiveness over immediate pitching duties.
Ohtani's 2023 Pitching Performance
Despite the upcoming hiatus from pitching, Ohtani's prowess on the mound is undeniable. In 2023, he recorded a 10-5 pitching record with a 3.14 ERA and a 1.06 WHIP, coupled with 167 strikeouts over 132 innings. These stats underline his potential to return as a formidable two-way player once he completes his recovery journey.
Looking Ahead
As the 2025 season looms, anticipation builds around Ohtani's return. While his pitching debut for the year may be delayed, his presence in the batting lineup is expected to deliver the excitement and performance that have become synonymous with his name. Ohtani's adaptability and resilience, coupled with the Dodgers' strategic planning and formidable roster, paint a promising picture for the season ahead.
For now, the baseball community eagerly awaits the day Ohtani returns to the mound, ready to juggle both bats and balls once again, adding yet another chapter to his extraordinary career. As Ohtani prepares for his 2025 season with the Dodgers, the message is clear: patience and strategic management will be key to ensuring his continued success and longevity in the sport.