Shohei Ohtani’s return to pitching remains a vital talking point. However, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has confirmed that he will not take the mound at the period of the Tokyo Series. While Ohtani continues enhancing his throwing program, his first bullpen session is planned for this weekend. The uncertainty related to his exact return date has left fans eager for updates.

Roberts and Shohei Ohtani have focused on patience, with the team focusing on a careful buildup instead of rushing him back. With no minor league rehab stint planned, Ohtani’s transition back to pitching will be a leap in MLB action. So, what does Shohei Ohtani’s timeline look like?

Shohei Ohtani’s timeline

The Dodgers are taking a cautious approach with Shohei Ohtani’s return to the mound. The team made it clear that he will not pitch in Japan. “He is progressing. He is going through his progression. I do not know when his first bullpen for us is. He is not going to pitch in Tokyo. He is excited to pitch“. Instead, Ohtani is aiming at his first bullpen session, expected this weekend. While his intensity level remains uncertain, the session highlights a vital step forward. “Sometime this weekend, it is going to be more related to touching the slope. Not sure what my intensity is going to be“.

Another vital part of Shohei Ohtani’s enhancement is refining his pitch arsenal. He highlighted that he has begun working on his breaking pitches. “I threw my sweeper for the first time on flat ground today, however, aside from that, all my pitches I have been throwing on flat ground.” While this is a positive sign, Ohtani’s return date will depend on how effectively he reacts to enhanced throwing intensity. The Dodgers are in no hurry to rush him back, focusing on long-period stability over quick availability. His capability to manage hitting and pitching will be the largest aspect in determining his timeline.

Dodgers’ approach

Instead of sending Shohei Ohtani on a minor league rehab stint, the team is opting to integrate him into the MLB roster. Roberts confirmed that there will be no rehab assignment. “There is not going to be a rehab engaged in because obviously we need him to be active on our roster to take at-bats.” With no minor league starts planned, Ohtani’s ramp-up will happen in the Dodgers’ managed environment. The team is assumed to manage his usual pitching routine.

“I think that is about it. I think that is kind of the six and seven days. Because there is also off days, too, which we are going to have to contend with.” This highlights that once Shohei Ohtani begins to pitch, the team will aim for consistency instead of sporadic appearances. Ohtani himself has highlighted confidence in his enhancement. “I am very satisfied overall with my throwing. I was capable to throw with pretty good intensity.” However, the team is ensuring that when he returns, Ohtani stays in the rotation without unnecessary breaks.

Shohei Ohtani’s return to pitching is progressing; however, the Dodgers are staying patient. With no Tokyo start and no minor league rehab stint, his bullpen session this weekend will provide the next large clue. How soon do you think Ohtani will be back on the mound? Drop your thoughts.