GLENDALE, Ariz. — Dodgers manager Dave Roberts announced that three-time MVP Shohei Ohtani is set to make his inaugural spring training appearance this Friday night, marking a faceoff against his former team, the Los Angeles Angels. The 30-year-old Ohtani is expected to play as the designated hitter. While Roberts has expressed optimism about Ohtani’s pitching return happening “sooner than later,” there is no official timeline. However, Ohtani will not be participating in the Dodgers’ opening series in Tokyo against the Chicago Cubs on March 18-19.
Ohtani, who endured an injury to his left shoulder while sliding into second base during the World Series, continues his recovery journey. In the World Series, the Dodgers clinched victory over the New York Yankees in five games. Last season marked Ohtani’s debut with the Dodgers, but he refrained from pitching to allow healing from an elbow surgery aimed at repairing a ligament.
Despite being limited to a batting role, Ohtani smashed an impressive 54 home runs and achieved 59 stolen bases, setting a record as the first player in the major leagues to join the 50/50 club. His remarkable performance earned him his third unanimous MVP title. On the mound, Ohtani boasts a commendable career record of 38-19 with a 3.01 ERA. Before his August injury in 2023, he maintained a 10-5 record with a 3.14 ERA.
