DALLAS – The Los Angeles Dodgers have high hopes that Shohei Ohtani will be able to contribute as a hitter when they kick off their season in Japan against the Chicago Cubs on March 18 and 19. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts expressed confidence in this outcome, noting, “I don’t think he’d have it any other way.”
While the reigning National League MVP is likely to make an appearance at the plate, his ability to pitch remains uncertain due to his recovery from right elbow surgery, which he underwent in September 2023. Roberts has stated that it is “very unlikely” Ohtani will take the mound during the Japan series, recognizing the challenges of managing his workload over the course of the season. He emphasized that starting the season with Ohtani pitching would not be practical, as considerations for his health would need to be prioritized.
Ohtani underwent surgery on November 5 to address a torn labrum in his non-throwing shoulder, which he injured while attempting a stolen base during Game 2 of the World Series on October 26. The 30-year-old star didn’t pitch at all during the first year of his $700 million, 10-year contract with the Dodgers, as he was still in recovery from previous elbow surgery and had also undergone Tommy John surgery back in October 2018. Following a standout season where Ohtani became the first player to achieve at least 50 homers and 50 stolen bases, his desire to play in front of fans in Japan is apparent.
Roberts noted that if Ohtani’s condition changes, adjustments may need to be made, which could lead to disappointed fans. Nevertheless, he remains optimistic about Ohtani’s participation, reinforcing that the focus will be on what is best for the player. The manager also expressed that he does not foresee the recent shoulder surgery affecting Ohtani’s pitching, stating the critical factor remains the recovery of his right elbow.
Addressing past experiences, Roberts recalled how Ohtani’s pitching return was managed post-2018 elbow surgery, a situation requiring careful planning and adjustments. He anticipates conversations about Ohtani’s dual roles will become clearer as the season approaches, but acknowledges that maintaining a balance between hitting and pitching will be complex.
In a personal touch, Roberts shared recent insights from his trip to Japan, where he visited for the first time in roughly 20 years. He met with Ohtani’s former manager and 84-year-old baseball legend Sadaharu Oh, who had an illustrious career with the Yomiuri Giants. Roberts expressed the surreal nature of speaking with Oh and noted how influential he is as a figure in baseball, particularly in regard to Ohtani.
Before his trip, Ohtani humorously warned Roberts to expect an abundance of images celebrating his legacy. Roberts confirmed that he indeed encountered numerous fans who recognized him during his visit, reflecting the immense popularity of the sport in Japan. Overall, the Dodgers are keeping a close watch on Ohtani, ready to make strategic decisions as they prepare for the upcoming season.
