
Dodgers Manager Hints at Shohei Ohtani's Potential Early Return to the Mound
2025-06-11
Author: Jia
Is Ohtani's Comeback Around the Corner?
In an exciting development for baseball fans, Shohei Ohtani has been making significant strides in his recovery. During his third live pitching session against hitters, Ohtani threw 44 pitches across three simulated innings. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts hinted that there's a "north of zero" chance Ohtani could take the mound in a major league game before the All-Star break, which runs from July 14 to 17.
A Glimmer of Hope Amid Uncertainties
This revelation marks a pivotal shift in Ohtani’s rehab timeline. Initially, it was assumed he would return after the All-Star festivities. However, Roberts' comments suggest a growing optimism around Ohtani's progress. Although the manager tempered expectations, emphasizing the uncertainty, even the slightest possibility of his return adds excitement to the Dodgers' season.
Dodgers Pitching Woes Put Pressure on Team
The Dodgers are facing challenges in their starting rotation, currently holding a 40-27 record that, while impressive, falls short of the high standards set for last year’s World Series champions. Their starting pitching has been inconsistent, boasting a 4.66 Fielding Independent Pitching (FIP), the second-worst among National League teams, placing them behind only the struggling Rockies.
With eight pitchers on the injured list, the team is relying on a makeshift rotation featuring players like Yoshinobu Yamamoto, who finds himself in the NL Cy Young discussion, alongside fans’ favorites Clayton Kershaw and Dustin May. However, both Kershaw and May have struggled this season, making Ohtani’s return even more crucial.
A Cautious Approach to Ohtani's Comeback
Despite the urgency, the Dodgers are not inclined to rush Ohtani back into action unless they are completely confident in his readiness. Last season, they made the tough decision not to activate him during the playoffs when pitching was sparse, opting instead to ensure his full recovery. This prudent approach signals their commitment to Ohtani’s long-term health, even in light of pressing team needs.
The Future Looks Bright for Ohtani and the Dodgers
As fans eagerly await further updates, the prospect of Ohtani’s return paints a hopeful picture for the Dodgers’ season. His electric pitching and unique skill set could be the tidal wave of momentum the team needs as they navigate a challenging league landscape. Stay tuned for more thrilling developments on Ohtani's journey back to the mound!