Ohtani hasn’t pitched since July 3, when he logged six innings and struck out nine in a win over the San Diego Padres. A left knee soreness sidelined him from the rotation indefinitely after that start, and he has been limited to hitting since then.
As October approaches, there is growing momentum to bring him back to the mound.
Dodgers GM Provides Update on Ohtani’s Pitching Return
GM Brandon Gomes has emphasized ongoing conversations with Ohtani about a possible return to pitching, underscoring how unique his two-way ability is for the roster. “We have to talk to him and continue to communicate because there is no one else doing what he’s doing,” Gomes said.
The dialogue between the front office and Ohtani appears to be progressing. Reports indicated that Ohtani was scheduled to throw a bullpen session, placing him on track for a potential return to the mound in the near term, possibly as soon as a weekend matchup against Detroit.
How Ohtani’s Absence From the Mound Has Affected His Season
At the plate, Ohtani has continued to deliver elite production. He is hitting .288 with 137 hits, 30 home runs, and 80 RBIs on the season. However, his inability to pitch since July has impacted his chase for a fourth straight MVP award, a distinction he secured in three consecutive seasons prior with the Angels and then with the Dodgers.
Ohtani remains in a tight race for the NL MVP, contending with top contenders in the league. A return to pitching would not only bolster the Dodgers’ postseason depth in the mound but would also strengthen Ohtani’s MVP case as the season nears its end.
The timing could not be more favorable for the Dodgers. They have faced a recent skid, dropping consecutive games to the Atlanta Braves, and are looking for a resurgence as they close out the regular season and push toward October.
Final Word for the Dodgers
Ohtani’s bat remains a constant weapon in the lineup. Bringing his arm back into the mix would alter the team’s postseason calculus in a meaningful way. If the bullpen session goes well and he returns to the mound, the Dodgers would reclaim a rare, elite two-way contributor at a crucial juncture.
Stay tuned for updates on Ohtani’s progress and the Dodgers’ pitching plans as they navigate the final stretch of the season.
