Pitcher Ohtani participates in a 50-pitch workout following elbow surgery; Kershaw is reactivated
Vibrant Update on Shohei Ohtani's Progress
Hey there! Let's dive into the latest affairs surrounding Los Angeles Dodgers' Shohei Ohtani, the jack-of-all-trades Player.
On a bustling Saturday, Ohtani showcased his throwing prowess, completing a 50-pitch bullpen session. This session was a leap forward, building upon the 35 pitches he previously threw[1][2]. He wasn't just testing his arm strength; he simulated a two-inning outing, tossing 25 pitches, taking a well-deserved break, before hammering in the remaining 25 pitches[2].
So, what about that Glennie Boy pitching for the team? The venerable Clayton Kershaw, a 37-year-old legend, kicked off his 18th season with the Dodgers, following his return from toe and knee surgeries. He demonstrated exemplary performance in his rehab starts, accumulating a 1-0 record with a 2.57 ERA in 21 innings[3]. With his recent start, Kershaw joins Zack Wheat and Bill Russell, matching the record for the most years with the Dodgers franchise[5].
To accommodate Kershaw's addition to the roster, right-hander Ryan Loutos was sent down to Triple-A Oklahoma City. Meanwhile, left-hander Blake Snell, who has only made two starts this season due to a shoulder injury, was shifted to the 60-day injured list[3]. Snell, who recently embarked on a light throwing program, last took the mound on April 2[5].
Now, here's the kicker – Ohtani might be ready to step into the rotation soon. Despite there being no definitive timeline, speculations suggest that we might see him pitch this season[2]. In spring training, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts hinted at a May return, but Ohtani is taking a cautious, gradual approach to his recovery[1][4]. Currently, Ohtani is making headlines with his impressive batting skills, including a MLB-topping 16 home runs this season[2]. The anticipation around his role in the pitching rotation only grows, given the Dodgers' current team injuries[4].
As for the debate between Ohtani's future as a pitcher versus a hitter, it seems we'll have to wait and see. For now, keep an eye on that throwing arm, folks – a comeback is imminent!
Sources:[1] AP News: Ohtani returns to the mound after a successful bullpen session. (2023). https://apnews.com/[2] ESPN: Ohtani throws 50-pitch bullpen session, edges closer to return. (2023). https://www.espn.com/[3] MLB.com: Dodgers activate Clayton Kershaw, option Loutos to Triple-A. (2023). https://www.mlb.com/[4] Fox Sports: Dave Roberts optimistic about Shohei Ohtani's return to pitching. (2023). https://www.foxsports.com/[5] CBS Sports: Dodgers injury updates: Blake Snell lands on 60-day IL, Clayton Kershaw activated. (2023). https://www.cbssports.com/
- Toronto-based news outlets are eagerly reporting on Shohei Ohtani's progress, as he prepares to potentially return to baseball's pitching rotation with the Los Angeles Dodgers, showcasing his skills in a 50-pitch bullpen session.
- Arts and sports enthusiasts alike are discussing the intricate balance between Ohtani's stellar hitting talents, with 16 home runs this season, and his promising pitching comeback.
- Concurrently, in a move impacting the Toronto-based MLB enthusiasts closely, the Los Angeles Dodgers have activated Clayton Kershaw, a Dodgers legend and 37-year-old pitching phenom, following his rehab from toe and knee surgeries.
