Shohei Ohtani, a phenomenon both on the mound and at the plate, is on the comeback trail following elbow surgery and an additional procedure on his non-pitching shoulder. As the Los Angeles Dodgers gear up for the 2025 season, the focus is on how the team will manage their $700 million superstar, especially with plans for him to join the rotation later in the year.
Ohtani's Recovery and Role in 2025
Ohtani, now 30, is expected to miss pitching duties during the opening series in Japan on March 18 and 19, 2025. Manager Dave Roberts has indicated that it’s "unlikely" for Ohtani to pitch during this series, with plans for a more conservative approach to his workload. Roberts mentioned the team will be "nimble" with Ohtani's pitching responsibilities, aiming for a 150-inning mark for the regular season, demonstrating a cautious plan to integrate his talents effectively post-surgery.
Despite these limitations on his pitching, Ohtani is anticipated to be ready to unleash his batting prowess at the start of the 2025 season. Given his previous season’s dominant performance, where he secured his third MVP title in four years, expectations remain high. Notably, Ohtani became the first player to accomplish a 50-50 season, primarily earning MVP honors as a designated hitter.
Performance and Impact
Ohtani’s impact on the field is undeniable. Last year, he posted a remarkable .310 batting average, with a .390 on-base percentage and an impressive .646 slugging percentage. His offensive stats include 38 doubles, seven triples, and a staggering 54 home runs. Moreover, Ohtani recorded 130 RBIs and crossed the plate 134 times, not to mention his 59 stolen bases and a 9.2 WAR, cementing his status as one of the most electrifying players in the league.
His pitching record last year also complemented his extraordinary skill set, with a 10-5 record, a 3.14 ERA, and 167 strikeouts over 132 innings, boasting a 1.06 WHIP. These numbers reflect both Ohtani's adaptability and excellence in the dual role he navigates expertly.
The Dodgers' Preparedness
The Dodgers, fresh off a World Series victory, show a well-prepared front to ensure pitching depth even in Ohtani’s opening absence. The 2025 rotation is set to include established names such as Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Tyler Glasnow, and Blake Snell. In addition, the squad is bolstered by returning hurlers Tony Gonsolin and Dustin May, enhancing the Dodgers' formidable rotation further.
The Dodgers excelled in last year's championship run, capturing the title with only three starting pitchers. This strategic success has given them a template to follow while Ohtani gradually rejoins the pitching rotation. Their robust roster and tactical flexibility position them effectively to handle the initial stages of the season, balancing competition and Ohtani’s return.
As the baseball world eagerly awaits Shohei Ohtani’s full return, the Dodgers’ methodological approach to handling his extraordinary talents could see them both tenacious competitors and a team to watch as the season unfolds. Ohtani's journey back onto the field symbolizes not just the resilience of an athlete but also the visionary strategies of a team poised to support and maximize its invaluable asset.