Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani hit a solo homer in his first at-bat of 2025, marking a triumphant return following offseason shoulder surgery. The slugger showcased his power and skill, sending a fastball from Los Angeles Angels pitcher Yusei Kikuchi soaring over the left field wall during a spring training game on Friday night.
Batting leadoff, Ohtani worked the count to full before executing a powerful swing that thrilled the packed crowd at Camelback Ranch. This moment not only delighted fans but also served as a promising indication that the talented Japanese athlete is poised for another standout season with the Dodgers.
At 30 years old, Ohtani faced big league competition for the first time since undergoing surgery to repair a partially torn labrum in his left shoulder. This injury occurred during Game 2 of the World Series, yet he remarkably played through the pain, helping the Dodgers clinch the championship against the Yankees in five games.
Last season, Ohtani secured his third MVP award, boasting impressive stats of .310 batting average, 54 home runs, 130 RBIs, and 59 stolen bases. He made history as the first player to achieve 50 home runs and 50 stolen bases in a single season. However, he did not pitch in 2024 due to an elbow injury, marking his inaugural season with the Dodgers.
Expectations are high for Ohtani’s return to the mound this season, although manager Dave Roberts indicated that this might not occur until May. Fans are eagerly anticipating his dual-threat capabilities as both a pitcher and hitter.
In a notable twist, Ohtani played against his former team, the Angels, where he spent the first six seasons of his career. During that time, he earned his first two MVP awards in 2021 and 2023. Ohtani’s move to the Dodgers came after signing a record-breaking 10-year, $700 million deal following the 2023 season.
This spring, the Dodgers have a condensed training schedule as they prepare for a two-game series against the Chicago Cubs in Tokyo on March 18-19. Ohtani is expected to play as the designated hitter in this international matchup, further igniting excitement among fans and players alike.
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Shohei Ohtani
Los Angeles Dodgers
Major League Baseball
