As Shohei Ohtani steps into the 2025 season, the Los Angeles Dodgers, alongside fans and analysts alike, are keenly observing the recovery of baseball’s phenom. Following his elbow surgery in the fall of 2023 and an additional procedure on his non-pitching shoulder, Ohtani is on a carefully charted path back to the mound. Yet, despite an impressive pitching resume, the Dodgers are plumbing the depths of Ohtani's talent, with a careful eye on his durability and recovery.
Strategic Pitching Plans
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has indicated that it’s "unlikely" Ohtani will pitch during the opening series in Japan on March 18 and 19, 2025. The organization plans to be "nimble" with his pitching workload, targeting around 150 innings for the regular season. This conservative approach underscores a broader strategy focused on preserving Ohtani’s health while maximizing his value to the team.
At 30 years of age, Ohtani comes off another electrifying season, having clinched his third MVP title in four years. Despite his recent surgeries, he remains a critical asset to the Dodgers, who secured his talents with a colossal $700 million deal. In the previous season, Ohtani’s pitching finesse was characterized by a 10-5 record, a 3.14 ERA, a 1.06 WHIP, and 167 strikeouts over 132 innings. These statistics paint not only a picture of dependability but of dominance on the mound.
A Batting Powerhouse
Even with limitations on his pitching, Ohtani’s batting prowess is set to excite from the start of the season. Last year, he hit a robust .310 batting average, complemented by a .390 on-base percentage and a formidable .646 slugging percentage. With 54 home runs, 38 doubles, and seven triples, Ohtani recorded 130 RBIs and scored 134 runs, proving indispensable at the plate.
Adding to his record-breaking feats, Ohtani carved out a unique niche by becoming the first player to achieve a 50-50 season while being honored as MVP, primarily as a designated hitter. His ability to impact games on both sides of the field continues to redefine what’s possible for a modern baseball player.
Strength in Depth
The Dodgers’ robust rotation is well-equipped to handle the temporarily reduced input from Ohtani on the mound. The team welcomed the likes of Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Tyler Glasnow, and Blake Snell, offering a powerful combination of youth and experience. Pitchers Tony Gonsolin and Dustin May are also expected to play pivotal roles in bolstering the rotation, adding further depth and resilience.
This configuration proved remarkably effective last season, when the Dodgers won the World Series with just three starting pitchers. The strategy emphasized their adaptability and strategic savviness, qualities they will need as Ohtani eases back into the starting rotation.
Looking Ahead
For the Dodgers, the 2025 season represents both new challenges and opportunities. With Ohtani's immense talent shaping the cornerstone of their strategy, the team’s management is diligently crafting a path that maximizes his dual-threat capability while safeguarding his health. This delicate balance is pivotal for a team with sights set on repeating their World Series triumph, relying not just on star power but also on calculated team dynamics and strategic foresight. Under these bright lights, every game will be a testament to Ohtani’s legendary status and his deepening contribution to the tapestry of baseball history.