Shohei Ohtani’s recovery from left knee inflammation reached a significant milestone Wednesday, July 22, as the Los Angeles Dodgers superstar completed a bullpen session. Manager Dave Roberts described the session as a "big sign" of progress toward Ohtani’s return to the pitching rotation, though the team plans to remain cautious with his workload for the remainder of the season.
Progress on the Mound and the "Big Test"
The focus of Ohtani’s recent training has shifted from flat-ground work to the mechanics of pitching off the slope. While the Dodgers have been pleased with the health of his arm, the transition to game-speed delivery remains the primary hurdle.
"The arm’s fine; it’s more of just going down the slope, getting over your front side," Roberts told reporters on Wednesday. "That’s the big test."
Ohtani was pulled from his scheduled pitching rotation just before the MLB All-Star break due to irritation and inflammation in his left knee. To manage the discomfort, the team utilized a lubricant injection, a procedure Roberts confirmed last week. The Dodgers have stated they do not intend for Ohtani to carry a full 100-pitch load during his initial outings once he is cleared to return to the mound.
Managing the Pitcher’s Workload
The Dodgers’ strategy for the second half of the season centers on balancing Ohtani’s recovery with his continued role as the team’s designated hitter. Despite the knee issue, Ohtani has remained active in the lineup, going 0-for-4 with one walk in the team’s 9-5 victory against the Philadelphia Phillies on Wednesday.
The discomfort in his knee had previously forced the league’s leading vote-getter to withdraw from the MLB All-Star Game, as the injury affected his pitching mechanics. The team’s cautious approach is designed to prevent long-term complications while ensuring he remains available for his offensive duties.
Did you know?
Shohei Ohtani’s bullpen sessions are strictly monitored by the Dodgers’ coaching staff to ensure his knee mechanics do not compromise his throwing arm health.
Upcoming Schedule and Team Outlook
The Dodgers are preparing for a series against the New York Mets beginning Friday, July 24. Before that, the team is scheduled to visit the White House on Thursday, July 23, to celebrate their World Series championship. Ohtani is expected to participate in his next bullpen session on Saturday, July 25, at Citi Field in New York.
Frequently Asked Questions
When will Shohei Ohtani return to the pitching rotation? Manager Dave Roberts indicated the team will be cautious and does not expect him to throw 100 pitches immediately upon his return.
Why was Ohtani pulled from his previous start?
He was removed from his scheduled start due to inflammation and irritation in his left knee, which impacted his pitching mechanics.
Is Ohtani still playing as a hitter?
Yes. Ohtani has continued to serve as the designated hitter for the Los Angeles Dodgers throughout his recovery process.
What is the next step in his recovery?
Ohtani is scheduled to throw another bullpen session on July 25 at Citi Field in New York to continue testing his knee on the slope.
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