Dodgers' Shohei Ohtani Returns to Pitch Against Padres Monday

Shohei Ohtani is set to make his pitching return for the Los Angeles Dodgers on Monday, June 16, in a game against the San Diego Padres, marking his first pitching appearance since August 2023 following right elbow surgery. The Dodgers announced Ohtani will be the starting pitcher, but he is expected to serve as an opener, likely pitching only an inning or two as he continues to build up his stamina. Ohtani, a three-time MVP and reigning National League MVP, has excelled both as a hitter and pitcher, boasting impressive career statistics including a 1.035 OPS and 25 home runs this season alone. His return comes amid injuries to other Dodgers pitchers, including Roki Sasaki, Blake Snell, and Tyler Glasnow, which have forced the team to rely on bullpen games. Fans and fantasy baseball players eagerly anticipate the return of Ohtani's dual-threat capability, though he will initially contribute more significantly as a batter until he can handle longer pitching outings. This comeback highlights the Dodgers' hopes to strengthen their pitching roster as they continue their 2025 campaign.