Ohtani Advances Toward Potential Return to Pitching Duties

WHO:

MLB.com - Shohei Ohtani, Dodgers two-way star

MLB.com - Dave Roberts, Dodgers manager

WHAT:

MLB.com - Ohtani played catch outdoors for the first time in over two weeks, throwing plyos in the visitors' bullpen before progressing to catch on the field.

MLB.com - Ohtani stated, "I think throwing with intensity and taking the next step is important," indicating his readiness to resume throwing.

MLB.com - Ohtani's progression will involve several days of stretching out his catch play before he can begin a bullpen progression and face live hitters.

MLB.com - Ohtani started a throwing progression by playing catch on the field.

MLB.com - Ohtani threw out to around 90 feet during his catch session.

MLB.com - Ohtani has a record of 8-2 with a 1.79 ERA through 14 starts this season.

MLB.com - Ohtani has been off the mound due to lingering soreness in his left knee.

MLB.com - Ohtani has continued to serve as the Dodgers' designated hitter.

MLB.com - Ohtani stated, "It’s getting pretty good day by day."

MLB.com - Ohtani mentioned, "Rather than rush the progression of this, I would rather make sure we’re headed in the right direction."

MLB.com - Ohtani aims to return to pitching ideally in early to mid-September.

MLB.com - Ohtani is more likely to be used as a multi-inning opener rather than a full starter upon his return.

WHERE:

MLB.com - The throwing session took place at Chase Field, Phoenix.

WHEN:

MLB.com - Ohtani last started a game on the mound on July 3.

MLB.com - Ohtani's last bullpen session was on July 22.

WHY:

MLB.com - Ohtani's return to pitching is contingent on the recovery of his sore left knee.

HOW:

MLB.com - Ohtani's return to pitching will follow a structured process similar to last season, which includes throwing sessions, bullpen work, and live batting practice before returning to games.

MLB.com - Ohtani's progression involves several steps: stretching out catch play, long toss, bullpen progression, and facing live hitters before returning to games.

In a positive sign for fans, Ohtani has played catch outdoors for the first time in over two weeks, throwing plyos in the visitors' bullpen before moving to the field. He expressed his readiness to resume throwing, stating, "I think throwing with intensity and taking the next step is important." Ohtani's return to pitching will follow a structured process similar to last season, involving several days of catch play, bullpen work, and live batting practice before he can return to games.