Ohtani's 2025 Pitching Debut: Dodgers Downplay Early Return
Posted: Mon Dec 09, 2024 10:20 pm
Ohtani’s Return to the Mound: More Hype Than Hope?
The Dodgers are downplaying Ohtani pitching in the Japan opener, citing concerns about rushing his return after UCL surgery. This raises some serious questions about his 2025 season. Is it realistic to expect Ohtani to be a true two-way player again? Are the Dodgers better off prioritizing his hitting and preserving his arm for the long haul?
Consider this: even without pitching, Ohtani’s offensive output alone makes him a valuable asset. His 2024 World Series performance, despite the labrum tear, highlighted his resilience. However, a lucrative, long-term contract hinges on his two-way abilities.
Will the Dodgers manage his workload differently given the investment? Could we see a scenario where he primarily DHs and pitches only in crucial games? Or are we setting ourselves up for disappointment if we expect him to replicate his pre-injury form? Let’s hear your thoughts. Is Ohtani’s pitching future a gamble the Dodgers should take, or are they better off playing it safe?
The Dodgers are downplaying Ohtani pitching in the Japan opener, citing concerns about rushing his return after UCL surgery. This raises some serious questions about his 2025 season. Is it realistic to expect Ohtani to be a true two-way player again? Are the Dodgers better off prioritizing his hitting and preserving his arm for the long haul?
Consider this: even without pitching, Ohtani’s offensive output alone makes him a valuable asset. His 2024 World Series performance, despite the labrum tear, highlighted his resilience. However, a lucrative, long-term contract hinges on his two-way abilities.
Will the Dodgers manage his workload differently given the investment? Could we see a scenario where he primarily DHs and pitches only in crucial games? Or are we setting ourselves up for disappointment if we expect him to replicate his pre-injury form? Let’s hear your thoughts. Is Ohtani’s pitching future a gamble the Dodgers should take, or are they better off playing it safe?