Shohei Ohtani Advances in Recovery, Eyes Dodgers' Rotation Before All-Star Break

In a significant development for the Los Angeles Dodgers, two-way star Shohei Ohtani has made notable progress in his rehabilitation efforts, with manager Dave Roberts stating there is now a 'north of zero' chance that Ohtani will return to the team's pitching rotation before the upcoming All-Star break. This statement underscores the strides Ohtani has taken in his recovery since undergoing surgery on his ulnar collateral ligament in September 2023.

During a simulated game at Petco Park on June 10, 2025, Ohtani threw 44 pitches across three innings, showcasing his potential to return to the mound earlier than initially anticipated. Prior to this, there was speculation that a mid-August return was more probable. However, real-time evaluations by the Dodgers' coaching and medical staff have shifted the narrative, suggesting a potential return in July.

Manager Roberts elaborated on the team’s unique situation, highlighting that Ohtani's 'two-way player' designation, mandated by a Major League Baseball (MLB) rule introduced in 2019, allows him to pitch without counting against the team's limit of 13 pitchers. This status affords the Dodgers the flexibility to reintegrate Ohtani into the rotation without the prerequisite of a full buildup typical for most pitchers.

'It certainly doesn’t have to be a full buildup,' Roberts explained. 'Anything that he can give us is certainly additive.' The Dodgers are keen to leverage Ohtani’s return as they navigate a challenging stretch marked by injuries to key pitchers, including Blake Snell and Tyler Glasnow, who are both on the injured list.

Dr. Neal ElAttrache, who performed Ohtani's surgery, along with the Dodgers' athletic training staff, will be closely monitoring Ohtani's recovery pace. Roberts noted the importance of patience in the process, acknowledging that while Ohtani is eager to return, it is critical to prioritize his long-term health over immediate performance.

Ohtani's return is not only vital for the Dodgers but also for the broader baseball landscape, as he continues to redefine the possibilities for two-way players in Major League Baseball. Following a historic season where he became the first full-time designated hitter to earn an MVP award, expectations are high. His rehabilitation has been methodical, starting with light throwing sessions and gradually increasing intensity, including facing live hitters.

The Dodgers have structured Ohtani's rehabilitation to include regular simulated games and bullpen sessions, with the aim of assessing his readiness to join the rotation. In his latest outing, Ohtani demonstrated effective command, striking out six batters while allowing a single ground ball, indicating that his skills have not diminished during his time away from competitive pitching.

As the Dodgers continue to evaluate their pitching options, Ohtani's potential return could significantly impact their playoff aspirations. With the team's current pitching depth in question, his contributions on the mound could provide a much-needed boost as they head into the second half of the season. The Dodgers have shown a commitment to managing Ohtani's return carefully, balancing his aspirations with the realities of his recovery process.

In conclusion, while the timeline for Ohtani's return remains fluid, his ongoing rehabilitation efforts suggest a promising outlook for both the player and the Dodgers. Fans and analysts alike will be closely watching to see how this story unfolds in the coming weeks as the All-Star break approaches.