Ohtani Eyes Mound Return
Shohei Ohtani Completes Live Batting Practice as Dodgers Prepare for His Return
Key Points
Dodgers relievers Justin Wrobleski (forearm inflammation) and Edwin Diaz (neck inflammation after elbow surgery) are progressing and expected to be on track for September, with Wrobleski slated to be a 2-3 inning reliever when he returns and Diaz aiming for a softer landing back.
Ohtani’s 30-pitch live batting practice featured him facing live hitters for the first time since July 3, with Will Smith catching; the next step is likely another live BP before game action.
Roberts described knee issues as behind Ohtani and noted that changes in his landing mechanics helped reduce knee stress during the BP session.
The Dodgers envision a ramp-up for Ohtani similar to last year’s Tommy John return: a staged progression with an initial one-to-two innings before building toward longer outings, with another live BP planned next week to extend the pitch count.
Shohei Ohtani threw 30 pitches in live batting practice on Saturday, marking his first time facing hitters since July 3 as he works toward his pitching return for the Los Angeles Dodgers Head Topics. Manager Dave Roberts said Ohtani's knee issues appear resolved, with another live batting practice likely before any game action Larry Brown Sports. The Dodgers plan a gradual ramp-up similar to his Tommy John recovery last year, potentially returning to the mound in a few days with one or two innings initially.
Knee Issues Resolved, Mechanics Improved
Roberts confirmed that Ohtani's knee problems are behind him after the 30-pitch session Head Topics. The team made changes to his landing mechanics that reduced knee stress during the practice. Will Smith caught the session, which was Ohtani's first live work against hitters in over two months TSN. The improved mechanics represent a key breakthrough in his recovery path.
Gradual Progression Before Full Starter Role
The Dodgers plan a staged return modeled on Ohtani's Tommy John comeback last season Larry Brown Sports. First comes another live batting practice next week to extend his pitch count. Then he'll pitch one to two innings in games before building toward longer outings. Full starter status may not arrive until the postseason if he stays healthy and passes performance checks.
Other Relievers Progressing Toward September Return
Relief pitchers Justin Wrobleski and Edwin Diaz are both on track for September, managing their own injury setbacks Head Topics. Wrobleski has been dealing with forearm inflammation and will serve as a 2-3 inning reliever when he returns. Diaz, who had elbow surgery, is managing neck inflammation and expects a softer landing back into games. Both progress signals boost the Dodgers' depth as they aim for postseason health.
Postseason Plans Depend on Ohtani's Performance
A successful pitching return could improve Ohtani's MVP odds if he performs well down the stretch Head Topics. The Dodgers sit at 78-51 and lead the NL West, positioning them to maximize Ohtani's two-way value. Outfielder Andy Pages is considering surgery for a fractured left hand, adding to injury management concerns. The team's depth and Ohtani's recovery timeline will shape both regular season performance and postseason roster decisions.
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