The Los Angeles Dodgers announced that Shohei Ohtani, one of the sport’s biggest two-way stars, will take the mound against the San Diego Padres on Monday. The announcement erupts in excitement among fans and gives doubters fuel to criticize the team further.
Shohei Ohtani Confirmed To Return To Pitching Against San Diego Padres
The official X handle of the Dodgers made a post saying, “Shohei Ohtani will be the starting pitcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers tomorrow night against the San Diego Padres.” To this, fans replied with excitement, saying, “Return of the GOAT,” while another added, “Sho-time for real.”
Shohei Ohtani will be the starting pitcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers tomorrow night against the San Diego Padres.
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) June 16, 2025
However, some fans also shared their doubts and criticisms. One commented, “Rafael Devers is gonna own Ohtani. Get ready dodgers fans.”
Rafael Devers is gonna own Ohtani. Get ready dodgers fans
— kai 🛸 (@kai2ballin) June 16, 2025
Another one added, “Oh wow… Now he’s pitching again too? Well good….” showing some concerns about his return to the role.
Oh wow… Now he’s pitching again too? Well good….😂😂😂 pic.twitter.com/NZIUzhkfht
— Dan Western (@westerns1978) June 16, 2025
Ohtani’s return to pitching has been an interesting journey. After undergoing his second major elbow ligament reconstruction in September 2023, the Dodgers slow-played his recovery, prioritizing his long-term health.
A torn labrum in his non-throwing shoulder further delayed progress, with Ohtani not facing hitters until May 25, when he hit 97 mph in a session at Citi Field. His buildup accelerated in June, culminating in a three-inning, 44-pitch simulated game against minor leaguers in San Diego, where he struck out six.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts also showed a similar confidence about the player. The team had initially targeted a post-All-Star break return, but Ohtani’s promising healing progress resulted in an earlier debut.
Ohtani’s start against the Padres marks his first pitching appearance for the Dodgers, 20 months after his last mound outing and 17 months after signing a record-setting 10-year, $700 million deal.
Limited to one inning as part of his gradual buildup, Ohtani will leverage the “Ohtani rule” to remain in the lineup as the designated hitter immediately after pitching. This flexibility, unique to the two-way star, allows the Dodgers to maintain their 14-pitcher roster while integrating his return.
In his career, Ohtani has broken multiple records. He led the National League with 25 home runs and a 1.034 OPS. Ohtani is building on a 2024 season in which he became the first player to hit 50 homers and steal 50 bases, earning his third MVP award and a World Series ring.
Ohtani’s pitching debut is more than a comeback; it is a historic moment in the sport. As he steps onto the mound, the baseball world will watch a player redefining what’s possible.