Dodgers-Padres Game Ticket Prices Surge Before Ohtani’s Debut

After nearly two years away from the mound, Shohei Ohtani is finally set to return to pitching. The Los Angeles Dodgers confirmed he’ll start against the San Diego Padres on Monday, his first time pitching since elbow surgery in 2023.

Fans are buzzing. Ohtani’s comeback feels like a landmark event for Major League Baseball.

Shohei Ohtani’s Road Back to the Mound

Ohtani underwent right elbow surgery in September 2023 after his pitching arm gave out late that season. Fast forward to 2025, and the Dodgers—fresh off a 2024 World Series win—are ready to see what their superstar can do again on the mound.

Manager Dave Roberts says Ohtani’s ready. He’s been cleared for limited action against the Padres in his debut.

A Delicate Start: One or Two Innings

The Dodgers aren’t taking any chances. Roberts expects Ohtani to throw just one or two innings in this first game back.

They’re easing him in. With the season still young, there’s no rush to push their $700 million investment too hard.

Skyrocketing Demand: The Ohtani Effect

Ohtani’s name alone can move markets. When news broke of his return, ticket prices for Monday’s game shot up by a wild 174%.

The cheapest seat jumped from $51 to $137 in a single night. If that’s not star power, what is?

A Record Year for Dodgers Ticket Prices

Even before Ohtani’s pitching return, Dodgers tickets averaged $181 per game—already the highest in MLB. That’s $40 more than the Red Sox, who come in second.

With Ohtani back on the mound, it’s a safe bet the Dodgers will keep setting the pace for baseball’s hottest tickets.

Ohtani’s Bat Hasn’t Missed a Beat

He hasn’t pitched since August 2023, but Ohtani’s bat never cooled off. Right now, he leads the National League with a 1.035 OPS and has already hit 25 home runs this season.

He’s still one of the most dangerous hitters out there. MVP chatter? Absolutely warranted.

The Dodgers Are Already Dominating

The Dodgers hold a 43-29 record, leading the NL West. Adding Ohtani’s arm, even for a few innings at first, just makes them scarier.

They’re coming off a World Series win, and now they’ve got Ohtani pitching again. Who’s betting against them?

Beyond the Game: Ohtani’s Impact on Fans

Ohtani’s return isn’t just about baseball. Dodger Stadium tours, usually $40 for adults, have exploded to $202.25 thanks to him.

He brings a rare kind of excitement. It’s not just a game—sometimes, it feels like a cultural event.

What’s Next for Ohtani?

For now, all eyes are on Monday night. Ohtani’s pitching return will get plenty of attention from fans, players, and analysts.

This is just the beginning of his 2025 campaign on the mound. The stakes feel higher than ever.

The Dodgers are counting on Ohtani to be a pivotal piece in their quest to defend their title. Fans can’t help but wonder if he’ll deliver.

As Shohei Ohtani steps onto the mound at Dodger Stadium, baseball fans get to witness something special. A talent like Ohtani doesn’t come around often—he’s a generational player who breaks the mold.

Whether he’s smashing home runs or firing fastballs, his dual-threat game turns every matchup into must-see TV. With the defending champion Dodgers buzzing, the stage is set for what might be another wild, unforgettable season.

 
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