The Big Lead

When will Shohei Ohtani return to pitching rotation? Dodgers star gets projected date

Los Angeles Dodgers superstar Shohei Ohtani could be returning to the pitching rotation sooner rather than later, according to the latest projection.

By Josh Sanchez

Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter Shohei Ohtani before a game at Dodger Stadium.
Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter Shohei Ohtani before a game at Dodger Stadium. / Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
facebooktwitter

Reigning MLB MVP Shohei Ohtani has been active at the plate this season as the Los Angeles Dodgers aim to repeat as World Series champions, but he has not seen the mound.

However, his return to the pitching rotation could be coming after the All-Star break, with July being tabbed as a potential timeline.

According to MLB insider Alden Gonzalez, Ohtani could be back on the mound as soon as next month.

MORE: Todd Frazier talks Dodgers, Shohei Ohtani, and baseball’s golden era

"Shohei Ohtani is expected to join the Dodgers' rotation at some point next month, with a slight chance of it occuring before the All-Star break," Gonzalez wrote on X.

"The reason: His progress, but also, the added roster spot. He can return as a 2- to 3-inning starter."

Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter Shohei Ohtani smiles before playing the San Diego Padres.
Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter Shohei Ohtani smiles before playing the San Diego Padres. / Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images

While Ohtani could return after the All-Star break, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts made it clear that the team will not rush the process on getting him ready.

"It's tempting [to bring him back sooner," Roberts said. "I'm sure Shohei is tempted to just rip the Band-Aid off for a big league game. But I think we've done a good job of just being patient. And truth be told, I don't know if anyone knows the right time to get him in a big league game.

MORE: Dodgers-Yankees ratings show why MLB continues to play the hits

"But we're still being very careful."

The Dodgers currently sit atop the NL West with a 40-28 record, a half-game ahead of the second-place San Francisco Giants. LA completes its series with the San Diego Padres on Wednesday, June 10, before kicking off its next three-game showdown with the Giants beginning Friday, June 13.

Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter Shohei Ohtani hits a double against the St. Louis Cardinals.
Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter Shohei Ohtani hits a double against the St. Louis Cardinals. / Jeff Curry-Imagn Images

GET MORE TOP STORIES from The Big Lead by subscribing to TBL YouTube channel

CFB: Colorado football coach Deion Sanders dealing with 'unspecified health issue'

MLB: Fox Sports scores massive hit with Red Sox-Yankees telecast

NBA: DeMarcus Cousins nearly fights fans in Puerto Rico, has drinks thrown at him

NFL: Stefon Diggs opens up on conversations with Patriots on viral boat video

SPORTS MEDIA: ESPN announces final College GameDay stop for college football legend Lee Corso

Home/MLB