In the ever-evolving narrative of Shohei Ohtani’s career, the anticipation surrounding his potential return to the mound in 2025 is palpable. Ohtani, a two-way superstar whose talent defies conventional boundaries, is coming off a tumultuous period that saw him tear his UCL in August 2023 while still with the Angels. After transitioning to the Dodgers, he became the first player in Major League Baseball history to record a season with both 50 home runs and 50 stolen bases, securing his third MVP award. Numbers like that underscore a season that many will remember as one of the finest in the game’s history—especially with a World Series ring potentially on the horizon.
As Ohtani eyes a return to pitching, though, the timeline remains a bit murky. Although he had begun bullpen sessions, any serious progress appears paused as the Dodgers staff, led by manager Dave Roberts, opts for a careful approach. Their focus is on ensuring Ohtani is ready to serve as a designated hitter for the upcoming Tokyo Series, a prime opportunity for the fans and the player alike. His hiatus from the mound spans back to that fateful August, with Tommy John surgery following soon after in September 2023, alongside ongoing rehabilitation for a torn labrum that required attention in November 2024.
So, what does this mean for Ohtani’s future as a pitcher? If the plan is to fully commit to hitting for now, Ohtani could potentially find himself taking the mound, only after the Dodgers’ international showcase, making a May or June return plausible—should everything unfold favorably. However, the pressing question lingers: when Ohtani does step back on that rubber, can he regain the form we’ve come to expect, or will the aftermath of his injuries muddy his ability to contribute in a dual capacity?
There’s a compelling dialogue brewing around the prospect of Ohtani’s future. Given the incredible risk that pitching brings to his athletic profile, some argue that he might be better suited focusing exclusively on his hitting prowess. With his remarkable ability at the plate, Ohtani stands to not only extend his playing years significantly but also cement his legacy as one of the greatest hitters in the history of the sport. Imagine the records he could set by focusing on that aspect alone, evoking memories of greats like Barry Bonds.
Carrying two Tommy John surgeries within a five-year span is a heavy burden for any player, especially one with the kind of explosive talent Ohtani possesses. Each rehab stint raises concerns not just for his health but for the broader picture regarding the Dodgers’ investment. The franchise is built around his dynamic skill set, and managing his workload as a dual-threat player is paramount.
As this narrative develops, it’s essential for the Dodgers and Ohtani to have pivotal conversations about the future. Is it worth the risk to keep him pitching, or should he transition into a more focused role? With an already strong supporting cast, there’s an enticing vision of what a fully committed Ohtani could achieve simply by concentrating on hitting. After all, the biggest threat in baseball might just be a healthier, single-focus Ohtani who swings for the fences while maintaining his place in the pantheon of the game’s greats. Whatever the decision, the next steps will shape the direction of not only Ohtani’s career but also the future of the Dodgers.
