Los Angeles Dodgers two-way star Shohei Ohtani’s return to the mound has been an event for the fans, but manager Dave Roberts is tempering the expectations about his pitching role in 2025. With 13 pitchers on the injured list and a fierce National League West race brewing, Roberts revealed a cautious approach to Ohtani’s pitching comeback, casting doubt on whether he’ll ever be a full-fledged starter this season.
Shohei Ohtani May Not Be Able To Fully Return This Year
Ohtani, 30, made his highly anticipated Dodgers pitching debut on June 16 against the San Diego Padres. Tasked with facing a formidable lineup featuring Fernando Tatis Jr., Luis Arraez, and Manny Machado, he threw 28 pitches over one inning, allowing one earned run on two hits with 16 strikes.
His second outing on Sunday against the Washington Nationals was much better. His performance resulted in a scoreless inning on 18 pitches, punctuated by two strikeouts, including his first as a Dodger against Luis Garcia Jr.
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Both starts were designed as openers, a deliberate move to ease Ohtani back after surgery sidelined him from pitching last year. But Roberts’ recent comments suggest the Dodgers aren’t rushing to stretch him out. “I think we’re always gonna be cautious,” Roberts said. “So I don’t even know what that’s going to look like, to be ‘fully built-up.’ I don’t think anyone knows what that looks like.”
All of Shohei Ohtani’s 28 Pitches. pic.twitter.com/rnUURFddhT
— Rob Friedman (@PitchingNinja) June 17, 2025
Fans hoping for Ohtani to log six innings or 90 pitches may need to adjust their expectations. “Because it’s not a normal starting pitcher,” Roberts said, “I don’t even know if we’ll get to that point,” Roberts said.
The Dodgers view any contribution from Ohtani’s arm as a bonus, especially given their depleted rotation. His offensive skills, however, are still leading the team in home runs. In 2025, his primary contribution will come at the plate, not on the mound
A Rival May Be Dodger’s Biggest Threat
The San Francisco Giants, revitalized by a young, talented roster, have emerged as a serious threat in the NL West. “The Giants are playing very smart baseball,” Ohtani said. “We know we can’t relax.” The historic rivalry has intensified, with San Francisco’s key victories and improved pitching staff challenging Los Angeles’ star-studded lineup.
The Dodgers’ cautious handling of Ohtani’s pitching could be pivotal in this tight race, where every game carries postseason weight. His limited pitching role may shift focus to his bat, but his presence on the mound — even in short stints — could prove to be a part of the playoff push.