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yesterday

Shohei Ohtani Takes Major Step Toward Pitching Return as Dodgers Grapple with Injuries

His live batting practice session is the first since his second Tommy John surgery, signaling a midseason boost for a rotation decimated by shoulder injuries.

Shohei Ohtani #17 of the Los Angeles Dodgers during live batting practice before the game against the New York Mets on May 25, 2025 in New York City.
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Overview

  • Ohtani threw 22 live batting-practice pitches to five hitters at Citi Field, his first mound work in 641 days, with fastballs reaching 94–97 mph.
  • He leads MLB with 20 home runs this season, becoming the earliest player to reach that mark and joining only two other Dodgers to hit 20 homers in their first 55 games.
  • Three members of the Opening Day rotation—Blake Snell, Tyler Glasnow and Roki Sasaki—are sidelined with shoulder injuries and Yoshinobu Yamamoto is managing a nagging hip issue.
  • Manager Dave Roberts says Ohtani remains on track for a post–All-Star break return to the rotation, potentially making 10–12 starts before the playoffs.
  • The NL East–leading Atlanta Braves have reignited their season with the returns of Ronald Acuña Jr. and Spencer Strider, increasing pressure on Los Angeles.