Dodgers’ Shohei Ohtani Says Hitting Rehab is Over; He’s In ‘Prepare-For-The-Season Mode’
Los Angeles Dodgers superstar Shohei Ohtani says he is a full-go and is preparing for the start of the regular season. The Japanese sensation spoke to the media, including Bill Plunkett of the OC Register, saying his hitting rehab is over. Ohtani’s focus is now on getting his reps in for the regular season.
“I think we can say the hitting part of rehab is over officially,” Ohtani said on Tuesday night. “Now I just need to get more at-bats, have quality at-bats, be able to see the ball and get my timing down.”
—Shohei Ohtani, via OC Register
Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts also gave insight into Ohtani’s preparation moving forward.
“I think right now he’s in ‘prepare-for-the-season’ mode,” Roberts said. “Which is a good thing for all of us.”
—Dave Roberts, via OC Register
Ohtani played in his fourth spring training game on Tuesday, and is playing in his second consecutive game for the first time this spring on Wednesday.
Prior to his Wednesday appearance, Ohtani had 10 at-bats while slashing .500/.583/.1000 with a 1.583 OPS, one home run, and five RBIs. The numbers definitely prove he is ready for the 162-game season.
The two-time AL MVP is recovering from a torn UCL in his throwing elbow. He will not pitch in 2024 but is expected to be L.A.’s everyday designated hitter. The process has been long, but it’s great to hear he is healthy and ready to go.
The regular season will begin in two weeks, when the team kicks things off in Seoul, South Korea against the San Diego Padres.
Expect to see Ohtani a lot over the next week before the team heads to Korea.
Photo Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
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