The Los Angeles Dodgers are anxiously waiting for a big boost to their pitching rotation as Shohei Ohtani inches closer to returning to the mound. After months of rehab and prep, manager Dave Roberts seems pretty optimistic that Ohtani might debut during the upcoming series against the San Diego Padres.
The Dodgers have been hit with a wave of pitching injuries, so Ohtani’s timing couldn’t be better. Still, the team’s overall health remains a question mark, especially when it comes to struggling rookie Roki Sasaki.
Shohei Ohtani’s Next Step: Simulated Game Key to Dodgers’ Plans
Ohtani’s last simulated game at Petco Park looked like a real turning point. He threw 44 pitches, mixing a fastball in the mid- to upper-90s with sharp command of his breaking and off-speed stuff.
He faced minor league hitters and left both scouts and teammates talking. That kind of buzz is hard to ignore.
Final Tune-Up Before Rejoining Rotation
Manager Dave Roberts says Ohtani’s next simulated game could be the last hurdle before he rejoins the starting rotation. Even though they’re keeping an eye on his recovery from a second UCL repair, Roberts hinted Ohtani might return before the All-Star break.
That would add some much-needed versatility to the Dodgers’ thin pitching staff. Because Ohtani’s a two-way player, the Dodgers can ease him back in by limiting his innings at first.
Roberts plans to use Ohtani as an extra pitcher, letting him throw two or three innings at a time, then handing things off to another arm. This piggyback approach helps Ohtani get comfortable again and gives the rotation some breathing room.
Dodgers’ Pitching Depth Tested as Injuries Mount
The Dodgers have dealt with adversity before, but this season’s pitching troubles feel overwhelming. Right now, 14 pitchers are on the injured list—including names like Blake Snell, Tony Gonsolin, Tyler Glasnow, and Roki Sasaki.
Most teams would struggle with that, and Roberts knows Ohtani’s return could help in a big way.
Roki Sasaki Faces Uncertain Road Ahead
Among the injured, Roki Sasaki’s situation stands out as especially worrisome. After coming over from Japan’s Chiba Lotte Marines, Sasaki just hasn’t found his rhythm, posting a 4.72 ERA in eight starts and losing some of his velocity.
His recovery has stalled, too. The Dodgers’ medical staff paused his throwing program after he felt shoulder discomfort and gave him a cortisone shot to help, but there’s no set timeline for his return.
It’s tough to say if Sasaki can live up to the hype he brought from Japan, at least this season.
Why Shohei Ohtani’s Return Matters
Ohtani’s return means more than just plugging a hole in the Dodgers’ roster. It speaks to resilience, preparation, and honestly, the star power that only a guy like Ohtani brings.
He can help on both sides of the ball, which is huge when the team’s facing this kind of pitching crisis.
Maximizing Ohtani’s Role
The Dodgers are being careful with Ohtani because they’re thinking long-term. By slowly bumping up his pitch count and using him in flexible ways, they’re keeping his health first while also trying to patch up the rotation.
This piggyback strategy—pairing Ohtani with another starter—just makes sense. It lowers the risk and lets Ohtani get back into things without too much pressure right away.
The Road Ahead for the Dodgers
July marks 22 months since Ohtani’s second UCL surgery. The Dodgers have waited patiently, and their careful approach looks like it might finally pay off.
Ohtani’s return to pitching brings a real boost to the rotation. It could even spark some new energy for a team that’s been dealing with way too many injuries lately.
At the same time, the Dodgers still face the challenge of getting through the season without pushing players back too soon. That’s a tough line to walk, honestly.
Sasaki’s journey looks much longer. There’s no clear timeline for his recovery, and it’s fair to wonder how he’ll adjust to MLB expectations.
The Dodgers have to balance their hopes for his future with the reality of what he can do right now. That’s never easy for any front office.
Here is the source article for this story: Ohtani’s pitching return might be coming soon
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