Dodgers’ Shohei Ohtani Has Officially Started His Throwing Program

Amid the scandal involving his former interpreter Ippei Mizuhara, Shohei Ohtani has officially began his throwing program. On the same day Ohtani spoke to the media for the first time regarding Mizuhara’s gambling addiction and theft, he threw from 45 feet on flat ground — his first attempt at throwing since undergoing internal brace surgery last year.

This is a significant step for Ohtani, whose 2023 season ended early because of a torn UCL. While Ohtani will not pitch this season, beginning his throwing program is the first necessary step to returning to the mound.

Ohtani will be able to rehabilitate as a pitcher while serving as the Dodgers’ primary designated hitter in 2024. Manager Dave Roberts has kept open the possibility that Ohtani could even play in the outfield later this year.

The current trajectory for Ohtani is to begin playing simulated games in September, then be ready to pitch in 2025.

For now, the two-time American League MVP is getting set for the Dodgers’ home opener against the St. Louis Cardinals on Thursday. This will be the Dodgers’ third regular season game of the year, after going 1-1 against the San Diego Padres in Seoul, South Korea.

So far through the regular season, Ohtani has taken 10 at-bats and recorded three hits, two RBIs and one run. He’ll look to build off those totals this week.

Photo Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

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