Dave Roberts Says Dodgers’ Staff is Confident Shohei Ohtani Will Pitch Again in MLB

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts announced, rather surprisingly, that the team met with Shohei Ohtani prior to the Winter Meetings. As a part of this meeting, it sounds like they discussed the likelihood of whether or not Ohtani would pitch again.

When asked about the status of Ohtani’s arm on Tuesday, Roberts had this to say.

“I think our staff is confident that when the time is right,” Roberts said, “that he will pitch again. But I think that the thing for us is you’re making a bet on the person, and the player as well. When you’re committing this type of length and dollars, we’re all in on the person. I think that we’re willing and excited to make that bet and hopefully it comes to pass.”

Via Bob Nightengale, USA Today

During the 2023 season, Shohei Ohtani underwent a second major elbow surgery. He initially had Tommy John surgery back in October of 2018. Despite no official confirmation, many believe that his second major elbow surgery was indeed another Tommy John.

Even if Ohtani did not take the mound in 2023, he still would have earned MVP votes. His abilities at the plate would still earn him a small fortune, and make him the most desirable free agent. It’s his elite pitching ability that separates him head and shoulders above the rest.

Roberts seems optimistic that Ohtani will return to the mound in some form. Best case scenario: Ohtani comes back to continue doing something that no one has seen before. In another scenario, he could still be an elite bat while also being a high-leverage reliever.

Both of the above scenarios would be ideal, especially if it’s in Dodger blue.

Photo Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports

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