Ohtani To Dodgers: Will He Pitch?

The burning question on every baseball fan's mind, especially those in Dodger blue, is: will Shohei Ohtani pitch for the Dodgers? The excitement surrounding Ohtani's arrival in Los Angeles is palpable, but it comes with a significant caveat: his pitching future. After undergoing a second Tommy John surgery in September 2023, Ohtani will not be pitching in 2024. However, the Dodgers faithful are eagerly anticipating his return to the mound in 2025. Let's delve into the details of Ohtani's contract, his injury, and what we can expect from him in the coming years.

Ohtani's Historic Contract and the Pitching Predicament

First off, Ohtani's contract with the Dodgers is a record-breaker. The $700 million deal over 10 years sent shockwaves through the sports world. However, a unique aspect of this contract is the significant deferrals, which allow the Dodgers to manage their competitive balance tax more effectively. This financial structure underscores the Dodgers' commitment to building a championship-caliber team around Ohtani. But with the pitching injury, it brings up important questions.

Ohtani's current condition is that he is recovering from his second Tommy John surgery, an injury that has sidelined many pitchers for extended periods. The typical recovery time for this procedure is 12-18 months, which places his return to pitching sometime in 2025. The Dodgers are taking a cautious approach, prioritizing his long-term health and performance over a rushed comeback. The team's medical staff will closely monitor his progress, and his return to the mound will depend on his rehabilitation and how well his elbow responds to the rigorous demands of pitching.

What to Expect from Ohtani in 2024

In 2024, Ohtani will focus solely on his role as a designated hitter. This allows him to contribute to the team's offense without putting additional stress on his recovering elbow. As one of the most dynamic hitters in baseball, Ohtani's presence in the lineup will be a major boost for the Dodgers. Fans can expect to see him hitting for power, driving in runs, and providing plenty of excitement at the plate. Even without pitching, Ohtani's offensive prowess makes him a valuable asset to the team.

Ohtani's dedication to his craft is well-known, and he is expected to work diligently on his rehabilitation throughout the 2024 season. While he won't be pitching, he will likely be engaged in various exercises and training activities to strengthen his arm and prepare for his eventual return to the mound. The Dodgers will provide him with the best resources and support to ensure he is ready to pitch in 2025.

The Anticipated Return to the Mound in 2025

The year 2025 is circled on the calendars of Dodgers fans everywhere. This is the year when Shohei Ohtani is expected to resume his pitching duties, reclaiming his title as a two-way superstar. The anticipation is building, and the excitement is palpable. When Ohtani returns to the mound, he will bring a rare combination of power, finesse, and intelligence that makes him one of the most unique players in the game.

However, it's important to manage expectations. After a second Tommy John surgery, it's uncertain how Ohtani's pitching performance will be. Some pitchers return to their pre-injury form, while others experience a decline in velocity or control. The Dodgers will be carefully evaluating Ohtani's progress and making adjustments to his training and workload as needed. The goal is to ensure he can pitch effectively and consistently while minimizing the risk of further injury.

The Impact on the Dodgers' Rotation

When Ohtani returns to pitching, he will undoubtedly become a key member of the Dodgers' starting rotation. His presence will elevate the team's pitching staff and provide a significant advantage over their opponents. Ohtani's ability to dominate on the mound, combined with his offensive contributions, makes him an invaluable asset to the team's overall success. The Dodgers' rotation, already boasting talented arms, will become even more formidable with Ohtani in the mix.

The Dodgers have built a roster that is designed to compete for championships, and Ohtani is a central piece of that puzzle. His arrival has raised the expectations of the team and its fans. The Dodgers are determined to win a World Series, and they believe Ohtani can help them achieve that goal. His impact extends beyond the field, as he brings a sense of excitement and optimism to the team and its fan base.

What Does This Mean for Fantasy Baseball?

For fantasy baseball enthusiasts, Ohtani presents a unique challenge and opportunity. In 2024, he will be a highly sought-after player solely for his hitting ability. His batting stats alone will make him a valuable addition to any fantasy team. However, in 2025, when he resumes pitching, his value will skyrocket. Owning Ohtani in a fantasy league will be like having two players in one, as he will contribute both as a hitter and a pitcher. Fantasy managers will need to carefully consider their strategy when drafting or trading for Ohtani, but his potential upside is undeniable.

Ohtani's dual-threat ability makes him a game-changer in fantasy baseball. He can provide a significant advantage in multiple categories, including home runs, RBIs, stolen bases, wins, strikeouts, and ERA. His versatility allows fantasy managers to build their teams around him, knowing that he can contribute in a variety of ways. Ohtani is a true fantasy baseball unicorn, and his performance will be closely watched by fantasy players around the world.

The Broader Implications for Baseball

Shohei Ohtani's impact extends far beyond the Dodgers and fantasy baseball. He is a global icon who has captured the imagination of fans around the world. His unique ability to excel as both a hitter and a pitcher has made him a role model for aspiring baseball players everywhere. Ohtani has shown that it is possible to achieve greatness in multiple areas of the game, and his success has inspired a new generation of two-way players.

Ohtani's presence in Major League Baseball has also increased the league's international appeal. He has drawn fans from Japan and other countries who are eager to watch him play. His games are broadcast around the world, and his highlights are shared on social media platforms, reaching millions of people. Ohtani is a true ambassador for baseball, and his popularity has helped to grow the game globally.

Conclusion: Ohtani's Future with the Dodgers

So, will Ohtani pitch for the Dodgers? The answer is a resounding yes, but not until 2025. In the meantime, fans can enjoy his offensive contributions in 2024 and eagerly anticipate his return to the mound the following year. Ohtani's arrival in Los Angeles has brought a new level of excitement to the Dodgers and their fan base. His historic contract, his remarkable talent, and his unwavering dedication make him one of the most compelling figures in baseball today. As Ohtani continues his journey with the Dodgers, the baseball world will be watching with great anticipation.

In summary: While Shohei Ohtani won't be pitching in 2024 due to recovery from Tommy John surgery, the Dodgers and their fans are eagerly awaiting his return to the mound in 2025. His unique two-way abilities make him a valuable asset to the team, and his presence is expected to elevate the Dodgers' pitching staff and overall performance. Get ready, baseball fans, because the Ohtani era in Los Angeles is just getting started!