Shohei Ohtani Returns to Dodgers, Expected to Pitch Before Spring Training Ends

The Los Angeles Dodgers did not expect Shohei Ohtani to return to the team this quickly.

Shohei Ohtani and opening day starter Yoshinobu Yamamoto missed a significant portion of spring training because they were playing for Japan in the World Baseball Classic. Japan, hoping to defend their 2023 Classic championship, was knocked out by Venezuela in the Sunday quarterfinals.

This might give Ohtani and Yamamoto some extra drive on their path with the Dodgers towards a third straight title.

"The feeling of not winning the Classic is certainly unpleasant," manager Dave Roberts said. "But I believe their goal is to win this year's championship for the Dodgers. I think their focus now will solely be on the Dodgers. So I'm not sure. They are definitely disappointed, but I still think they will concentrate on winning this year."

For the Dodgers, Japan's early exit also has a benefit: it ensures Shohei Ohtani can pitch during spring training.

Before leaving for the Classic, Ohtani appeared only once, recording one single in three at-bats in the Dodgers' first spring training game. Since Japan was widely expected to advance deep into the tournament, the Dodgers originally had no plans for Ohtani to pitch in Cactus League games, though they hoped he could at least pitch next week in the Freeway Series warm-up games in Southern California.

While with Japan, Ohtani maintained his arm activity through bullpen sessions. His most recent was a four-inning simulated game practice in Miami last Friday. He could potentially pitch in Arizona later this week, or more likely during the Freeway Series against the Angels from March 22 to 24.

From the start of spring training, the Dodgers stated Ohtani would be in the opening rotation, though his pitching preparation path was unclear due to the Classic. Last year, they saw Ohtani perform excellently despite an unconventional adjustment—he essentially completed his rehabilitation from a second major elbow surgery during major league games.

But now, with confirmation that Ohtani will pitch as a pitcher in spring training, the Dodgers can expect him to handle longer innings from the beginning.

"Last year, our plan was to start him with one inning, keep him with us, and maintain his activity. I'm sure this year will be more than that," Roberts said. "I don't think we cannot have him pitch three to four innings in major league games. That's certainly a better starting point than last year. We'll see."