Shohei Ohtani, one of Major League Baseball’s most iconic and versatile players, is set to make his long-awaited pitching debut for the Los Angeles Dodgers on Monday, June 16, 2025. After recovering from elbow surgery in 2023, Ohtani’s return to the mound has been one of the most highly anticipated moments of the MLB season. The event could significantly impact the Dodgers’ chances of reaching the postseason, as they seek to build momentum for the second half of the season.
A Unique Player: Ohtani’s Dual Threat
Since his arrival in MLB with the Los Angeles Angels in 2018, Shohei Ohtani has been one of the most captivating players in the sport. His rare ability to excel both as a pitcher and hitter has made him a phenomenon. As a pitcher, Ohtani has a fastball that can reach over 100 mph and a slider that keeps hitters guessing. As a hitter, he is a consistent home run threat, capable of changing the course of a game with a single swing.
However, Ohtani’s return to pitching had been uncertain after his elbow injury, which required Tommy John surgery in 2023. While he continued to bat at an elite level during his recovery, Ohtani’s pitching career seemed to be on hold. For MLB fans and experts, Ohtani’s unique talent—playing both sides of the game at such an elite level—is unparalleled. No player has played in such a dual-threat capacity since Babe Ruth, and it has led many to question how teams can leverage his two-way abilities to their advantage.
Despite the challenges of returning from such a significant injury, Ohtani’s dedication to getting back on the mound was clear. As the 2025 season began, fans eagerly awaited updates on his recovery. His ability to pitch again would make him even more valuable to the Los Angeles Dodgers, a team that had been in need of a strong rotation to help solidify their playoff prospects.
The Dodgers’ Quest for Pitching Depth
The Los Angeles Dodgers have faced their own pitching struggles throughout the 2025 season. Despite having a strong offensive lineup, including MVP candidates like Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman, the Dodgers’ rotation has been inconsistent. Injuries to key pitchers, including Clayton Kershaw and Tony Gonsolin, have forced the team to rely on younger, less experienced arms. While the Dodgers have remained competitive in the National League West, their pitching depth has been a point of concern.
The addition of Shohei Ohtani to the rotation could be a game-changer. Ohtani’s ability to contribute as both a pitcher and a hitter is unmatched in the modern era, and his return to the mound brings immediate hope for the Dodgers. With the team currently sitting in second place in the National League West, Ohtani’s presence could be the key to propelling them toward another division title and, ultimately, a deep playoff run.
Ohtani’s Recovery and What to Expect
Ohtani’s recovery from Tommy John surgery was a delicate process. After the surgery in 2023, Ohtani dedicated himself to regaining his full strength, both on the mound and in the batter’s box. He spent much of 2024 in rehab, focusing on strengthening his arm and regaining his pitching form. As a hitter, Ohtani had no setbacks and continued to perform at an elite level. His performance at the plate in 2024, where he hit over 40 home runs, was a testament to his work ethic and resilience.
However, Ohtani’s pitching return in 2025 has been heavily anticipated by both fans and analysts. In preparation for his pitching debut, the Dodgers have carefully monitored his rehabilitation progress, ensuring that his arm is fully healed before taking the mound. Ohtani has been throwing bullpen sessions for months, gradually ramping up his intensity. The Dodgers coaching staff has made sure that he is ready for the physical demands of starting a game, including the stress on his arm that comes from pitching in the Major Leagues.
According to Dodgers manager Dave Roberts, Ohtani’s return to the mound has been a carefully planned and strategic process. “We want to make sure that Shohei is fully prepared for this moment,” said Roberts. “He’s an incredibly gifted player, and we’re confident that he’s ready to contribute in every way possible.”
The Anticipation Builds
As Ohtani’s pitching debut approaches, excitement is building in both Los Angeles and around the league. The Dodgers’ fanbase, eager for a return to championship contention, is hoping that Ohtani’s presence will solidify their rotation and push them into the postseason. However, the broader MLB community is also eager to see if Ohtani can continue his unprecedented career as a two-way player and whether he can maintain his dominance on the mound after returning from surgery.
“The excitement surrounding Ohtani’s return is palpable,” said John Smoltz, a Hall of Fame pitcher and MLB analyst. “What Ohtani brings to the game is something we’ve never really seen before. We’ve had dual-threat players in the past, but none with the same level of sustained excellence. Watching him pitch and hit is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”
For the Dodgers, Ohtani’s return is not just a chance to improve their rotation; it also represents a broader vision for the team. The Dodgers have long been one of the most forward-thinking teams in baseball, investing in both analytics and player development. Adding Ohtani to their roster is a reflection of their commitment to staying ahead of the curve in an increasingly competitive MLB landscape.
The Matchup Against the Padres
Ohtani’s first start on June 16 will come against the San Diego Padres, one of the Dodgers’ biggest rivals in the National League West. The Padres have been competitive this season, and a strong pitching performance by Ohtani could go a long way in helping the Dodgers close the gap in the standings. San Diego’s lineup is filled with power hitters, including Fernando Tatis Jr. and Manny Machado, so Ohtani’s ability to control the game with his fastball and slider will be crucial.
The matchup promises to be one of the most exciting of the year. Fans can expect Ohtani to face off against Padres ace Yu Darvish, a fellow Japanese pitcher who has also been in the MLB for several years. The duel between Ohtani and Darvish will showcase two of the game’s best pitchers, making it a must-watch event for baseball enthusiasts.
Ohtani’s Legacy and Impact on MLB
Shohei Ohtani’s return to pitching not only has significant implications for the Dodgers but also for the future of MLB. His dual-threat abilities have brought new attention to the possibilities of two-way players in professional baseball. While players like Babe Ruth made a name for themselves as both pitchers and hitters, Ohtani’s ability to sustain such excellence in the modern era has reignited interest in the potential for more two-way players.
For MLB, Ohtani represents an exciting new frontier. His success as both a pitcher and a hitter could open the door for future generations of players who are able to excel in both areas. While Ohtani’s case remains unique, his impact on the game is undeniable.
For the Dodgers, Ohtani’s presence on the roster elevates their championship aspirations. His versatility makes him one of the most valuable players in the game, and his debut on the mound will be a defining moment for the team’s season. As the MLB season heats up, Ohtani’s pitching debut could be the spark the Dodgers need to make a run for the World Series.
Looking Ahead
After his debut, Ohtani’s role with the Dodgers will continue to evolve. He is expected to make regular starts throughout the season, but his continued success at the plate will keep him a key figure in the team’s offensive lineup as well. It remains to be seen how the Dodgers will manage Ohtani’s workload throughout the season, but the opportunity to watch him pitch and hit in the same game is one that fans across the world are eagerly anticipating.