Shohei Ohtani (Los Angeles Dodgers), preparing for his return to the mound, completed his fifth bullpen session. He showed smooth recovery, recording the most pitches of the season.

Ohtani, who debuted in Major League Baseball in 2018, has made a splash as a two-way player. Until last year, he pitched 86 times, achieving 38 wins, 19 losses, and an earned run average of 3.01. In 2022, he notched 15 wins and 9 losses, setting both his debut's first double-digit wins and the record for most wins in a season.

As a hitter, he has appeared in 875 games, recording a batting average of .282 (3,119 at-bats, 878 hits), 225 home runs, 567 RBIs, 562 runs, and 145 stolen bases. Last year, with a batting average of .310 (636 at-bats, 197 hits), 54 home runs, 130 RBIs, 134 runs, and 59 stolen bases, he opened the era of 50 home runs and 50 stolen bases in Major League Baseball, earning the National League Most Valuable Player award.

On the 13th (Korean time), Japanese sports media 'Sponichi Annex' reported, "Ohtani completed his fifth bullpen session before the home game against the Chicago Cubs." Ohtani mixed in splitters and two-seam fastballs, throwing 30 pitches, the highest number since February 25.

Ohtani's return to the mound remains uncertain. He underwent right elbow ligament reconstruction surgery in September 2023 and played only as a hitter last year. After injuring his left shoulder while sliding during the World Series against the New York Yankees last year, he underwent surgery for a left shoulder joint labrum tear in November, so he is not in a hurry.

In a recent interview with 'LA Times,' a media outlet in the Los Angeles area, Ohtani noted, "I think I'm doing well in the bullpen and feel really good," but he added, "I am still at a stage with limitations on pitches and velocity. I need to consult with the team's doctor, training staff, and coaching staff," showing a cautious stance.

According to the report from 'Sponichi Annex,' manager Dave Roberts said, "Ohtani's goal is to pitch as a key player in the second half of the season. Ohtani is well aware of this and does not seem anxious or impatient."

Manager Roberts also added, "Ohtani needs to throw various pitches to face hitters again and must go through steps like live pitching. No specific pitching plan has been set yet. Ohtani's physical condition is the most important."

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