As the Los Angeles Dodgers prepare for the upcoming season, significant attention is focused on the anticipated return of Shohei Ohtani. The two-way sensation is in recovery following elbow surgery in the fall of 2023, a procedure that also included work on his non-pitching shoulder. Despite the surgical setbacks, optimism surrounds Ohtani's return to the batter's box at the start of the 2025 season.
This optimism is not unwarranted. In his previous season, Ohtani demonstrated yet again why he is among the most formidable players in Major League Baseball. He secured his third MVP title in four years, a testament to his extraordinary talent and impact on the field. Ohtani's statistics were nothing short of astounding: a .310 batting average, a .390 on-base percentage, and a .646 slugging percentage. His offensive prowess was further underscored by 38 doubles, seven triples, and an impressive 54 home runs. Moreover, he drove in 130 RBIs and scored 134 runs, showcasing his value as a reliable run producer.
Ohtani's speed complements his power, as evidenced by his 59 stolen bases last season, a mark that contributed significantly to his 9.2 Wins Above Replacement (WAR) score. Uniquely, Ohtani became the first player to accomplish a 50-50 season, achieving 50 or more home runs and stolen bases while earning MVP honors primarily as a designated hitter. This dual-threat capability sets him apart in MLB history.
The Dodgers, aiming to integrate Ohtani back into their pitching roster, announced that his workload will be carefully managed. Manager Dave Roberts stated, "The team will be 'nimble' with Ohtani's pitching workload," emphasizing a cautious approach to his reintegration. The plan outlines a pitching workload around the 150-inning mark for the regular season. However, Roberts acknowledged that it is “unlikely” Ohtani will pitch during the Dodgers' opening series in Japan on March 18 and 19, 2025, indicating a measured return to the mound.
The Dodgers' pitching strategy in 2025 is designed to maintain competitive depth. The rotation is set to include high-caliber arms such as Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Tyler Glasnow, and Blake Snell. Additionally, returning pitchers Tony Gonsolin and Dustin May are expected to bolster the rotation, providing depth and experience that could prove invaluable over a long MLB season. This strategic depth allowed the Dodgers to secure a World Series victory the previous year, despite relying on just three starting pitchers throughout the series—a testament to their adaptability and strength.
In 2023, prior to his surgery, Ohtani's pitching record stood at 10-5 with a 3.14 ERA, 1.06 WHIP, and 167 strikeouts over 132 innings. These numbers hint at the potential impact Ohtani can have on the mound once fully recovered.
Ohtani's commitment to the Dodgers was underscored by his landmark $700 million deal, reflecting both his value and the organization’s faith in his ability to deliver. Across his career, he has embodied a rare blend of power, speed, and pitching precision. Though his immediate future will see him primarily swinging a bat, the Dodgers and their fans eagerly anticipate the day when he can resume his dual-role duties.
As the Dodgers strategize for 2025, all eyes are on Ohtani. His return promises to inject even more excitement into a team that is already poised to contend. Whether at the plate or on the mound, his presence will undoubtedly be pivotal to the Dodgers' aspirations in the forthcoming season.