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Shohei Ohtani continues to be one of the most feared bats in Major League Baseball, dominating the offensive statistics alongside Aaron Judge, but his long-awaited return to the mound is also beginning to take shape
The Los Angeles Dodgers' Japanese star took a significant step in his rehabilitation by incorporating breaking pitches for the first time in a bullpen session this week, which could mean that his return as a pitcher is getting closer, according to information from the AP.
So far, Ohtani had focused solely on fastballs and splitters as part of his recovery after undergoing a second Tommy John surgery in September 2023. The inclusion of sliders represents a milestone in his process.
"He's progressing," manager Dave Roberts said of his recovery. "I'm not sure when he's going to be able to throw that slider from flat ground to the bullpen, but that's a step forward."
Dave Roberts still has no date for Ohtani's return
Although there is no definitive date for his return as a pitcher, the team is targeting the All-Star break in July as a possible window. "I wish I had an answer (as to when it will be)," Roberts added. "I'm just waiting for the approval of those who are in charge of Shohei's rehabilitation."
Meanwhile, his offensive impact remains outstanding. Ohtani is hitting .304 with 52 runs scored and 31 driven in. His 1.053 OPS ranks among the best in MLB, and his 17 home runs keep him tied for the lead with Kyle Schwarber, ahead of Aaron Judge, who is having a spectacular season, hitting .402, driving in 44 runs and boasting a 1.246 OPS.
The return of Ohtani as a pitcher and his debut with the Dodgers on the mound seems to be a matter of time. While that is happening, his bat continues to make a difference in Major League Baseball.