Ohtani's Return to Dodgers' Pitching Rotation

Shohei Ohtani is set to resume pitching for the Los Angeles Dodgers after a long rehabilitation from his second Tommy John surgery. According to Dodgers' manager Dave Roberts, Ohtani will throw a bullpen session this Saturday, marking his first mound activity since February 25. Ohtani, who has been focusing on his hitting, played a significant role as a designated hitter, leading the Dodgers to a World Series title and earning the NL MVP in 2024. The Dodgers are exercising caution with Ohtani's return to pitching, aiming for him to make 18-20 starts this season and be available as both a pitcher and hitter by the end of the season. His return is highly anticipated as the Dodgers have significantly bolstered their rotation by acquiring stars like Blake Snell and Yoshinobu Yamamoto. Ohtani's dual ability as a pitcher and hitter is expected to further elevate the Dodgers' already formidable roster.