Dodgers Manager Admits It’s ‘Tempting’ to Get Shohei Ohtani Back on the Mound As Soon As Possible
LOS ANGELES Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has acknowledged what every baseball fan is thinking: it’s incredibly tempting to rush Shohei Ohtani back to the mound. But while the two-way superstar is making steady progress in his recovery from elbow surgery, Roberts insists the organization will remain patient despite the growing desire to see Ohtani pitch again.
Ohtani, who underwent his second Tommy John surgery in September 2023, has already exceeded expectations at the plate in his first season with the Dodgers. He currently leads the National League with 23 home runs and 39 RBIs, proving that his offensive production hasn’t skipped a beat. But what fans and the Dodgers’ depleted pitching staff are waiting for is his return to the mound.
Speaking to reporters this week, Roberts confirmed that Ohtani recently completed a successful three-inning simulated game, throwing 44 pitches and hitting mid-90s on the radar gun. “The temptation is absolutely there, Roberts admitted. “When you see him throwing like that, it’s hard not to imagine him back in games.
Still, the Dodgers manager was clear: there will be no shortcuts. “We’re going to do this the right way,” he said. “He’s too important to this team’s future, and frankly, to the game of baseball, to risk anything by rushing him.
The Dodgers are currently managing several injuries within their rotation, making Ohtani’s potential return even more desirable. Roberts noted that while a return before the All-Star break is not off the table saying the odds are “north of zero” any decision will be made in conjunction with medical staff and Ohtani himself.
This approach echoes the organization’s long-term vision for Ohtani, who signed a record-breaking 10-year, \$700 million deal with the Dodgers in late 2023. While pitching is a critical part of his value, the Dodgers see him as a cornerstone player for the next decade—and they’re not willing to risk that future for short-term gain.
In the meantime, Ohtani continues to be a dominant force at the plate, keeping fans on their feet and the Dodgers in contention. Whether he returns to the mound next month or later this season, one thing is certain: when Shohei Ohtani does take that first pitch again, the baseball world will be watching.
