The Los Angeles Dodgers are navigating a tumultuous season with an injury-riddled pitching staff, making Shohei Ohtani's return to the mound a highly anticipated event. However, the team is proceeding with caution, prioritizing Ohtani's long-term health over immediate gains.

The Current State of the Dodgers' Pitching Staff

The Dodgers' pitching woes were starkly evident in a recent game against the San Diego Padres. Matt Sauer, a 26-year-old journeyman, was called upon to pitch bulk innings, throwing a career-high 111 pitches. He was followed by utility player Enrique Hernandez, who recorded the final seven outs with pitches barely reaching 50 mph. This marked the first time in at least 67 years that a Dodgers position player had been called on for more than two innings.

Shohei Ohtani's Recovery and Simulated Games

Ohtani has been making steady progress in his recovery, participating in his third simulated game recently. He ramped up to 44 pitches, showing promising signs of a return to the mound. Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman emphasized the importance of a cautious approach, stating, "We set out to view this as putting him in the best position to pitch over the next nine years and prioritizing longevity."

Ohtani's Dual Role: Pitcher and Hitter

Ohtani's unique ability to excel both as a pitcher and a hitter adds another layer of complexity to his recovery. His offensive contributions have been invaluable, with impressive stats since the start of the 2023 season, including leading the majors in home runs and ranking second in OPS. However, his stolen-base rate has dropped, possibly due to the escalation of his pitching rehab.

The Dodgers' Strategy and Future Outlook

The Dodgers are acutely aware of the endurance required for Ohtani to perform at his best in both roles. Friedman noted, "It's one thing when you're in that rhythm of it and you are in shape for that. But it's been a while since he did both, and this is pretty uncharted." The team is focused on building up Ohtani's endurance and ensuring he doesn't fatigue in a way that compromises his performance.

Conclusion

As the Dodgers continue to navigate this challenging season, Ohtani's return to pitching remains a beacon of hope. His dual impact as a pitcher and hitter is unparalleled, and the team is committed to ensuring his long-term health and success. With careful management and a focus on endurance, the Dodgers aim to unlock Ohtani's full potential in the seasons to come.