Shohei Ohtani’s return to two-way excellence has been one of the most anticipated stories of 2025. After an injury in 2023 forced him to pause his pitching duties, fans and analysts alike have been eagerly waiting for him to pick up where he left off—they can already feel the excitement building as the two-way marvel is almost back! But as Ohtani goes through his bullpen sessions, something is different this time: the Los Angeles Dodgers are choosing caution over speed.

Instead of rushing him back into full-pitching mode, the Dodgers have opted to slow down, taking a more measured approach. Dave Roberts, the Dodgers’ manager, explained the decision, saying, “We just felt that to intensify the bullpens alongside the intensity of the games (as DH) wasn’t smart, so we just wanted to kind of slow-play it.” The team knows that Ohtan’s future relies on not just his skills but also his health sustainability for the long season.

The Dodgers aren’t putting any pressure on Ohtani’s return, acknowledging the uncertainty that surrounds his pitching rehab. Roberts hinted that May could be the ideal time for his return, but there’s no rush as of now. “We just don’t know when Ohtani will return to pitching,” Roberts admitted, underscoring the careful balance the team is working to strike. With no sure-shot expectations, the plan is simply to let Shohei take his time and ensure when the moment arrives, he is at his very best.

In the end, the Dodgers’ decision to slow-play Ohtani’s pitching return is a classic case of ‘don’t count your chickens before they hatch.’ Like any great story, this one’s unfolding chapter by chapter—slow, steady, and with the promise of greatness at the finish line.

Shohei Ohtani reveals his goals ahead of Tokyo Series

Shohei Ohtani is setting his sights on a clear goal as the Los Angeles Dodgers head to Japan for the upcoming Tokyo Series. With the excitement of the season fast approaching, Ohtani is poised to showcase his unparalleled two-way talent once again. But before he hits the grand stage in Japan, Ohtani has a personal milestone to achieve! During spring training, Ohtani has made it clear that his primary goal is to log 50 at-bats.

“Overall, just live plus seeing pitches in Trajekt, I would like to be able to have at least 50 at-bats,” Ohtani shared in an interview. This target isn’t just about hitting numbers—it’s about getting back into a groove and ensuring he’s fully prepared. The number 50 is one that he is familiar with, having set a benchmark last season. In his limited Cactus League appearances, Ohtani has already shown signs of returning to his formidable self. Last week, he blasted a full-count home run against the Los Angeles Angels.

What’s more reassuring for Ohtani and the Dodgers is that his shoulder, which sidelined him last year, seems to be holding up just fine. Now with the Tokyo Series just around the corner, Shohei Ohtani is determined to build up his at-bats, regain his timing, and prepare. Whether it’s hitting or pitching, Ohtani is focused on returning to his two-way excellence, ready to take on the world stage in Japan.