The Dodgers Unveil Detailed Plan for Shohei Ohtani’s Pitching Return: A Long-Term Vision Fueled by Precision and Patience

As the 2025 MLB season hits its stride, the Los Angeles Dodgers are once again the center of attention — not just for their powerhouse lineup and dominant record, but for the slow and strategic return of one of the game’s most transcendent talents: Shohei Ohtani. After undergoing a second major elbow surgery in 2023, Ohtani has spent the last year focused entirely on hitting while meticulously rehabbing for his long-awaited return to the mound.

Now, the Dodgers have revealed their comprehensive and data-driven plan for Ohtani’s pitching comeback, a process that prioritizes long-term health, controlled milestones, and postseason readiness, rather than immediate gratification.

“There’s no rushing greatness,” Dodgers President of Baseball Operations Andrew Friedman said during a media session this week. “We’re playing the long game with Shohei. Our plan is built around science, collaboration, and trust.”

The Milestones Behind the Comeback

Ohtani’s return plan is structured around a series of rehabilitation milestones, each carefully monitored by the Dodgers’ elite medical and performance staff. The phases include progressive throwing sessions, biomechanics testing, bullpen simulations, and eventually, live batting practice against minor league hitters.

As of mid-May 2025, Ohtani has already completed flat-ground work and is now entering the light bullpen phase — throwing at 60-75% intensity. The next milestone is set for early July, when he will face live hitters in a simulated environment.

“The key is mechanics and recovery,” said Dodgers pitching coach Mark Prior. “We’re not just watching radar guns — we’re watching every angle, every muscle group, every response.”

The organization has integrated AI-driven motion capture and wearable sensor technology into Ohtani’s workouts, aiming to detect any asymmetries or stress points that could lead to re-injury. This futuristic, technology-enhanced rehab represents a model for how elite athletes may return from surgery in the modern era.

The Role of Ohtani’s Dual Talents

Despite being sidelined from the mound, Ohtani has been a force at the plate in 2025. His bat remains one of the most feared in baseball, and his presence in the lineup has helped keep the Dodgers at the top of the NL West.

But for Ohtani, pitching is more than just a role — it’s part of his identity. The Dodgers understand that and have worked closely with him to build a plan that brings both confidence and caution.

“He’s a unicorn, and unicorns require special care,” said Friedman. “We’re doing this with Shohei’s voice at the center of it. He’s involved in every decision.”

Sources inside the clubhouse say Ohtani has taken a patient, even-keeled approach to his rehab, often arriving early for training and staying late to study film and technique. He’s also leaned on teammates like Walker Buehler, who has his own experience returning from Tommy John surgery.

No Official Date, But a Target Window Emerges

While the Dodgers have declined to provide an official return date, insiders suggest the team is targeting a September bullpen or spot relief appearance, with a full starting role likely resuming in 2026.

The team’s playoff outlook — virtually guaranteed barring catastrophe — allows them to be cautious. With Clayton Kershaw nearing his own return and Buehler regaining form, there is no immediate need to plug Ohtani into the rotation.

“This isn’t about just getting him back,” said Prior. “It’s about getting him back right — for the playoffs and for the next five to seven years.”

Big Picture: Protecting the $700 Million Investment

Ohtani’s record-breaking 10-year, $700 million contract is not just a reflection of his two-way prowess — it’s a commitment to longevity. The Dodgers know that his pitching return doesn’t need to be rushed in 2025. With the long-term horizon in view, every precaution is being taken to avoid setbacks.

This careful management aligns with the Dodgers’ broader philosophy: sustained excellence through smart decision-making, elite player development, and a patient approach to stars recovering from injury.

Fan Reaction and Anticipation

Dodgers fans, while eager to see Ohtani take the mound again, have largely embraced the slow-play strategy. Chants of “Let him heal!” echo online, and many fans understand that rushing the most valuable player in baseball back could jeopardize his future.

“We want him at 100%, not 80%,” one fan posted on X (formerly Twitter). “I’ll wait a year if it means a decade of dominance.”

What Lies Ahead

Shohei Ohtani’s pitching return is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched storylines in baseball. But with every smart step taken, every carefully monitored session completed, and every day that passes without setbacks, the anticipation builds — not with anxiety, but with excitement.

If all goes according to plan, the world will see Shohei Ohtani the pitcher again soon — stronger, smarter, and more dangerous than ever.

And when he finally steps on the mound in Dodger Blue, it won’t just be a return. It will be a resurrection.