Originally published by DodgerBlue.com
Shohei Ohtani has made tremendous progress in his recovery from right elbow surgery as he looks to return to the mound during the 2025 season.
There was some thought that Ohtani could pitch for the Dodgers in the postseason, but the organization has all but formally decided it would be best to not rush him back.
The two sides recently met to discuss a plan for Ohtani’s next steps, which will see him continue his throwing program in the month of October.
However, it isn’t clear if Ohtani will simply throw off a mound or face hitters, via David Vassegh of AM 570 L.A. Sports:
Shohei Ohtani said he will continue his throwing program into October, but no decision made about facing hitters. #Dodgers
— David Vassegh (@THEREAL_DV) September 29, 2024
Ohtani said that he won’t allow his throwing program to be a distraction for his postseason preparation:
Ohtani said thru his interpreter, he won’t allow his throwing program to interfere for him being ready for playoff games. #Dodgers
— David Vassegh (@THEREAL_DV) September 29, 2024
Ohtani is getting set to participate in the playoffs for the first time as a big leaguer after a historic 2024 season that saw him hit 54 home runs and steal 59 bases.
While Ohtani will continue throwing throughout the month of October, his biggest priority is going to be keeping up his hot hitting as the Dodgers look to accomplish their goal of winning the World Series.
Dodgers considered shutting down Shohei Ohtani
Before deciding that Ohtani will continue his throwing program in October, the Dodgers considered shutting him down until the offseason.
“I think that you could argue there’s a shutdown to rest, and there’s also an argument to continue to build up, face hitters and build a little bit more going into the off-season,” Dodgers manager Dave Roberts recently said.
“But that’s more for the training staff and the doctors.”
Have you subscribed to the Dodger Blue YouTube channel? Be sure to ring the notification bell to watch player interviews, participate in shows and giveaways, and stay up to date on all Dodgers news and rumors!
