Shohei Ohtani: A Remarkable Return to the Mound
Shohei Ohtani’s journey back to pitching has been a testament to resilience, meticulous planning, and unwavering dedication. After undergoing his second Tommy John surgery in September 2023, the Los Angeles Dodgers’ two-way superstar faced the daunting task of returning to the mound. As of May 2025, Ohtani has not only made significant strides in his rehabilitation but is also on the cusp of rejoining the Dodgers’ pitching rotation.
The Road to Recovery
Following his surgery, Ohtani’s rehabilitation was approached with caution. Initially, he focused on strengthening his shoulder and regaining range of motion. By late March 2025, he had progressed to throwing from 60 feet, reaching speeds of up to 80 mph in his sessions. This marked a significant milestone in his recovery .(MLB.com)
In early March, Ohtani took another significant step by throwing a 25-pitch bullpen session, touching 95 mph and introducing a cutter to his repertoire. Manager Dave Roberts described this as a “big step” in Ohtani’s throwing progression
Cautious Optimism
Despite these advancements, the Dodgers have been cautious with Ohtani’s return. Manager Dave Roberts emphasized that the focus is on Ohtani’s long-term well-being, aiming to have him contribute both as a pitcher and a hitter through the end of the season and beyond .
Ohtani himself has expressed optimism about his recovery, stating that he feels “really strong” and is adhering to the team’s guidance to ensure a safe return .
Looking Ahead
As the Dodgers continue their season, Ohtani’s potential return to the mound is eagerly anticipated. His unique ability to excel both as a pitcher and a hitter has the potential to significantly impact the team’s performance. While the exact timeline for his return remains uncertain, the progress he has made thus far is promising.
In conclusion, Shohei Ohtani’s journey back to pitching is a remarkable story of perseverance and dedication. With each passing day, he moves closer to rejoining the Dodgers’ rotation, bringing hope and excitement to fans and teammates alike.(SI)
