Shohei Ohtani Set for Spring Training Debut as DH Against Angels
Recovering from shoulder surgery, Ohtani will return to the field Friday night, with plans to pitch later this season.
- Shohei Ohtani, the three-time MVP and Dodgers star, will serve as the designated hitter in Friday's spring training game against his former team, the Los Angeles Angels.
- Ohtani is recovering from left shoulder surgery performed in November after sustaining a labrum tear during the Dodgers' World Series victory over the Yankees.
- Dodgers manager Dave Roberts confirmed Ohtani will not pitch in the season-opening Tokyo Series against the Cubs but hopes for his return to the mound later this season.
- In 2024, Ohtani made history as MLB's first 50-50 player, hitting 54 home runs and stealing 59 bases, earning him his third unanimous MVP award.
- Ohtani's 2025 debut will mark his first game action since the offseason surgeries, with high anticipation for his return as both a hitter and pitcher.