It has been over a year since Shohei Ohtani last operated as a two-way player for the Los Angeles Dodgers, but it sounds like he is on the verge of returning to that role.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts told reporters on Sunday that Ohtani is planning to throw another live batting practice session at some point this week. When asked if that could be the last live BP session for Ohtani before he pitches in an MLB game again, Roberts said, "potentially."
"He's getting very eager. He's getting very excited. I think there's a point where the effort that it takes to throw lives and things like that (rather) than to play a game, then let's use those bullets in a game," Roberts said. "So, he's getting very excited.
"The thought is anything he can give us — and I've said this before — is additive, given where we're at right now. Whether it's an inning or two innings on the front end of an outing, that's positive. That's additive without a cost, so that's kind of where our heads are at right now."
Dave Roberts says Shohei Ohtani could be facing live hitters for the final time before pitching in his first game for the Dodgers:
— Dodgers Nation (@DodgersNation) June 15, 2025
“He’s getting very eager, getting very excited.” pic.twitter.com/IPW0OfLEUs
Ohtani underwent surgery in September 2023 to repair a torn UCL in his pitching elbow. He also had Tommy John surgery after his rookie season with the Los Angeles Angels in 2018. The 30-year-old Ohtani began facing live hitters again last month.
When Roberts said anything Ohtani can give the Dodgers is "additive," he was referring to the fact that Ohtani has continued to anchor L.A.'s lineup as one of the best hitters in baseball. The four-time All-Star entered Sunday batting .290 with 25 home runs, 41 RBI and a 1.023 OPS.
The Dodgers are 42-29 and in first place in the NL West. They will likely bring Ohtani along slowly as a pitcher when he makes his return.
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