The Los Angeles Dodgers anticipate that Shohei Ohtani will be prepared to hit when they kick off their season in Japan against the Chicago Cubs on March 18 and 19. This expectation comes as the reigning World Series champions look to make a strong statement in their international opener.
“I don’t think he’d have it any other way,” remarked manager Dave Roberts on Monday, referring to the National League MVP who underwent left shoulder surgery last month. “That’s our expectation.”
While Ohtani is coming off his third MVP award, he is unlikely to pitch due to ongoing recovery from elbow surgery performed in September 2023. Roberts expressed that a mound appearance during the Japan series is “very unlikely.”
“I just don’t see us starting the clock in March and then expecting that to continue through October,” Roberts explained during the winter meetings. “That would mean taking a break or reprieve in the middle of the season, which I still think is unlikely.”
Ohtani underwent surgery on November 5 to repair a torn labrum in his non-throwing shoulder, an injury he sustained while attempting a stolen base in Game 2 of the World Series on October 26. He was unable to pitch during the first season of his monumental $700 million, 10-year contract with the Dodgers as he was recovering from elbow surgery, having previously undergone Tommy John surgery in October 2018.
As a unanimous National League MVP, Ohtani made history by being the first player to achieve at least 50 home runs and 50 stolen bases in a single season. His desire to be part of the lineup in Japan is evident, as fans eagerly await his return to the field.
“It’s not cemented. If something doesn’t look right or feel right, obviously we have to pivot. That could lead to a lot of disappointed fans,” Roberts acknowledged. “We’re going to prioritize what’s best for Shohei. But as things stand now, I expect him to play.”
