The return of Los Angeles Dodgers superstar Shohei Ohtani as a pitcher has come a step closer.
American sports media 'Sporting News' reported on the 18th (Korea time) that 'Ohtani is smoothly going through the rehabilitation process after Tommy John surgery, and recently threw 50 pitches in bullpen sessions.' The highest pitch count prior to this was 35, and this bullpen outing is assessed as the most significant progress in his rehabilitation process.
Ohtani ended his season last August while with the Los Angeles Angels due to a torn ulnar collateral ligament (UCL) in his elbow and subsequently underwent Tommy John surgery. This season, after signing with the Dodgers, he has been active only as a batter and has not yet made an appearance as a pitcher.
The Dodgers organization is maintaining a cautious stance regarding the timing of Ohtani's return. It has not yet been determined whether he will first throw breaking pitches like curveballs or sliders or begin pitching against live batters. However, the increase in pitch count is certainly encouraging.
Ohtani has been excelling at the plate even during his rehabilitation. As of the 17th, he has recorded 16 home runs this season, leading Major League Baseball in home runs. Along with his excellent base running ability, he is considered one of the best hitters in the league.
Local media predicted, 'If Ohtani returns to the mound, he will become an incredible asset to the Dodgers, adding the value of a 'pitcher' to his already elite status as a hitter and base runner.'
The Dodgers are carefully monitoring Ohtani's condition and keeping the possibility of his return open within the coming months. The complete return of the 'two-way monster' is approaching.
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