The Los Angeles Dodgers are cautiously optimistic about the return of superstar Shohei Ohtani to the pitching mound. After a break of over a month from regular bullpen activities, Ohtani resumed throwing last weekend and followed up with another session earlier today. According to reports from Bill Plunkett of the Orange County Register, Ohtani completed 26 pitches during his latest bullpen session, notably incorporating his splitter for the first time this season. This marks a step up in his activity level, following a lighter session earlier in the week.

Manager's Plan for Ohtani's Return

Manager Dave Roberts has outlined a plan aimed at mirroring the schedule Ohtani will follow once he returns as a starting pitcher. This entails having Ohtani throw off the mound twice a week—first with a lighter session on Thursdays and then a more intense one on Saturdays. However, it's important to understand that while Ohtani is increasing his pitching activity, it does not indicate an expedited timeline for his return to major league games.

Next Steps in Ohtani's Recovery

According to Roberts, the next phase for Ohtani involves integrating his full pitching arsenal into his bullpen exercises, moving beyond just fastballs and occasional splitters. It's only after he demonstrates full capability that the Dodgers will consider facing live hitters in simulated games, a crucial step in getting him game-ready while he continues to serve as their designated hitter. It's anticipated that Ohtani will need several of these simulated outings before he can confidently return to a live game environment.

Projected Timeline for Return

Currently, a realistic estimate suggests that Ohtani may not make his pitching debut with the Dodgers until June at the earliest. In the interim, the Dodgers' pitching rotation includes notable names such as Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Blake Snell, Tyler Glasnow, Roki Sasaki, and Dustin May. Furthermore, veterans Clayton Kershaw and Tony Gonsolin may also rejoin the team from the injured list before Ohtani is set to pitch, presenting the Dodgers with multiple options for their rotation.

Fan Anticipation for Ohtani's Comeback

As Ohtani works towards his comeback, fans and analysts alike are keeping a close eye on his progress. The anticipation surrounding his return to the mound is palpable, and it could significantly impact the Dodgers’ performance as they strive for another successful season. Stay tuned for more updates on this thrilling journey.