Shohei Ohtani, the two-way superstar for the Los Angeles Angels, made history recently by becoming the sixth player ever to hit 40 home runs and steal 40 bases in a single season. His incredible feat was highlighted by a walk-off grand slam, showcasing his theatrics and solidifying his place in baseball history. Ohtani’s natural talent and ability to excel both as a hitter and a baserunner have set him apart from his peers.
After his memorable performance at the plate, Ohtani quickly shifted his focus back to his pitching responsibilities. In a session at Dodger Stadium, he threw off a mound for the first time since undergoing a second major elbow procedure in September of the previous year. Although the session was brief, with only 10 pitches, it marked an important milestone in Ohtani’s ongoing rehabilitation process.
While Ohtani continues to make progress in his throwing rehabilitation, the Los Angeles Dodgers, who signed Ohtani in December, have made it clear that he will not pitch for them in the 2024 season. The organization has ruled out any possibility of Ohtani taking the mound for them, instead focusing on his return to two-way play in the second year of his record-setting 10-year, $700 million contract. The Dodgers’ priority is ensuring Ohtani’s long-term health and success, rather than rushing his recovery for immediate on-field contributions.
Ohtani’s journey back from his second ulnar collateral ligament reconstruction is a significant challenge. He previously underwent Tommy John surgery in 2018, which kept him off the mound until 2020 and limited his pitching appearances until 2021. In his most recent procedure, Ohtani underwent a hybrid Tommy John surgery that included the addition of an internal brace to provide extra support for his reconstructed ligament.
Looking ahead to the 2025 season, it remains uncertain if the Dodgers will impose any restrictions on Ohtani’s pitching workload. However, there is speculation that the team could start the season in Tokyo, showcasing a rotation led by Ohtani and fellow Japanese pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto. This potential scenario would be a remarkable moment for Japanese baseball and further highlight Ohtani’s impact on the game.
Overall, Ohtani’s accomplishments and ongoing recovery demonstrate his resilience and determination to excel as a two-way player. His ability to overcome significant injuries and make history in the process has solidified his status as one of the game’s most electrifying and versatile athletes. As Ohtani continues to push the boundaries of what is possible on the field, fans eagerly await his return to full strength and the next chapter of his remarkable career.