Dave Roberts offers an update on Shohei Ohtani's pitching following a surprising disclosure
In a refreshing update, Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts shared that pitching sensation Shohei Ohtani is making great strides in his recovery. Roberts confirmed that Ohtani's bullpen sessions are going swimmingly, but it's not quite time for him to take the mound in a Major League Baseball game just yet.
During a heart-to-heart with FOX Sports, Roberts hinted at the possibility of Ohtani facing some live hitters and participating in simulated games at some point. However, fans will have to remain patient, as Ohtani's return still isn't imminent.
Ohtani last pitched during his tenure with the Angels in 2023, after he underwent surgery on his right elbow and left shoulder. His surgeries have kept him off the mound since then. Despite the setback, the versatile star has been a force to reckon with at the plate. His power displays remain undeniable, as he's currently hitting .293 this season with eight home runs.
In the 2023 season, Ohtani showcased some truly jaw-dropping numbers with a 50-50 year, smashing 50 home runs and stealing 50 bases. It goes without saying that his return to the mound will be a massive boost to the Dodgers.
The Dodgers are playing top-notch baseball even without Ohtani's pitching services. They are currently enjoying a impressive 23-10 record after beating the Atlanta Braves 10-3 on Saturday. However, fans are eagerly waiting for the day when Ohtani will once again find his pitches, including his famous slider, and take his place on the mound.
Roberts mentioned that Ohtani has been working tirelessly in the bullpen, but he's yet to bring out his slider. A return to that pitch may depend on a medical decision, as the team is careful not to strain his elbow. But when will that step be taken? Only time will tell.
With their sights set on defending their 2024 World Series title, the Dodgers are shaping up to be a formidable force yet again. They've added some extra talent to their roster, with star pitcher Roki Sasaki leading the charge. Sasaki clinched the victory for the Dodgers against Atlanta on Saturday, with Ohtani contributing to the team's winning streak by homering and scoring three runs.
As the Dodgers continue their journey toward securing another championship, fans wait with bated breath for the Japanese slugger to join their pitching rotation. The Dodgers are now standing tall atop the National League West, and a rejuvenated Ohtani can only make them even stronger.
- Fans are hoped to be excited as Shohei Ohtani, the versatile star for the Los Angeles Dodgers, prepares to possibly throw his slider on the mound in a simulated game, hinted by manager Dave Roberts.
- Although Shohei Ohtani hasn't been pitching in a Major League Baseball game since his surgeries on his right elbow and left shoulder in 2023, his recovery is progressing well, based on the bullpen sessions he has been participating in.
- When Ohtani does finally make his appearance on the mound, his presence will surely boost the Dodgers' odds of winning, as he demonstrated jaw-dropping numbers during the 2023 season with his combination of pitching and hitting prowess.
- With Shohei Ohtani still not fully ready to return, the Dodgers have managed to maintain a strong performance, securing a remarkable 23-10 record this season, even without his pitching services.
- The Dodgers, with an impressive roster including the addition of star pitcher Roki Sasaki, are aiming to successfully defend their 2024 World Series title, and the return of Ohtani to the mound would come as another significant boost to their already formidable pitching rotation.
