Ohtani pitched one inning, and it was promising. In 28 pitches total, he threw 16 strikes, gave up 1 run on 2 hits. While he didn’t get any strikeouts, he also didn’t walk anyone or give up a home run. He looked healthy and confident, and after 2 years away from the mound, that’s what Ohtani, the Dodgers, and fans all hoped for: it’s Sho-time!
After Nearly Two Years, Shohei’s Back on the Mound
Shohei Ohtani made his eagerly awaited return to the mound on Monday, June 16, in his Los Angeles Dodgers uniform. He had thrown plenty of pitches in bullpen sessions and batting practice, and that uni certainly got plenty of wear over the past 2 years. This was his first time pitching in a Major League baseball game since August 2023.
Ohtani started his night with a 98 mph sinker, showing that his velocity is still there. He mixed in 10 sweepers, 9 fastballs, and 1 splitter, showing that he still has range. The highlight of the night was undoubtedly the 100.2 mph fastball to Luis Arraez. Ohtani proved that he isn’t just back as one of the greatest, but will continue to bring the excitement and heat.
The one run in his inning pitched started with Fernando Tatis Jr. lead off with a single, then advancing to third base. Manny Machado hit a sacrifice fly to score Tatis, but Ohtani stayed focused in the moment. He picked up his left leg with intent, worked down and out, throwing groundouts to Gavin Sheets and Xander Bogaerts. Sure, it wasn’t a perfect pitcher/catcher exchange on every pitch, but he did what he needed to do to get out of the inning and prove Ohtani is back.
Ohtani may have pitched only one inning, but he stayed in the game as Los Angeles’ designated hitter. This is part of what makes him so unique; his value transcends defense and offense.
What This Means Moving Forward
This appearance was the next big step to get Ohtani back on his way to being a full-time pitcher again. Fans and teammates are encouraged to see him back on the mound and healthy. If this is any indication of what’s to come, Ohtani will continue to be an integral and dynamic part of the Dodgers’ season moving forward.
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