### Dodgers' Anticipation Grows as Shohei Ohtani's Return to Pitching is Delayed The Los Angeles Dodgers are eagerly awaiting the return of superstar Shohei Ohtani, who is recovering from a torn UCL sustained in 2023. With the Dodgers' pitching staff currently facing multiple injuries, the urgency for Ohtani's return has intensified. However, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has confirmed that Ohtani will not pitch until after the All-Star break, emphasizing a cautious approach to his recovery given the significant investment in the player, estimated at over $700 million. This decision reflects a commitment to Ohtani's long-term health rather than a hasty return to the mound amidst the team's injury crisis [https://www.yardbarker.com/mlb/articles/dodgers_dave_roberts_sets_timeline_for_shohei_ohtanis_return_to_pitching/s1_17615_42258853]. ### Breakdown of Ohtani's Return Timeline and Current Team Situation 1. **Injury Status**: Ohtani is recovering from a torn UCL, which has kept him off the mound since 2023. His return is highly anticipated by fans and the team alike. 2. **Manager's Statement**: Dave Roberts has publicly stated that Ohtani will not pitch before the All-Star break, indicating a cautious recovery process [https://www.nbclosangeles.com/news/local/shohei-ohtani-pitching-return-timeline/3708861/?os=..]. 3. **Team's Injury Crisis**: The Dodgers currently have three starting pitchers on the injured list, which has heightened the urgency for Ohtani's return, yet Roberts insists that this will not accelerate his recovery [https://www.reuters.com/sports/report-dodgers-shohei-ohtani-not-mound-before-break-2025-05-26]. 4. **Fan Expectations**: There is significant excitement among baseball fans regarding Ohtani's potential return, with many eager to see him back on the mound [https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/mlb/article-14747109/Shohei-Ohtanis-pitching-future-Dodgers-mound.html]. ### Supporting Evidence on Ohtani's Recovery and Team Dynamics - **Injury List**: The Dodgers are currently managing a pitching staff that is heavily impacted by injuries, with three starters sidelined [https://www.reuters.com/sports/report-dodgers-shohei-ohtani-not-mound-before-break-2025-05-26]. - **Roberts' Caution**: Roberts has made it clear that the team's injury situation will not rush Ohtani's recovery, highlighting the importance of his long-term health over immediate needs [https://www.yardbarker.com/mlb/articles/dodgers_dave_roberts_sets_timeline_for_shohei_ohtanis_return_to_pitching/s1_17615_42258853]. - **Recent Progress**: Ohtani has taken significant steps towards recovery, including participating in live batting practice, which indicates he is making progress, albeit slowly [https://www.sportingnews.com/us/mlb/los-angeles-dodgers/news/shohei-ohtani-pitch-again-live-bp-hitters/435a0d9431e33768fe65f68a]. ### Conclusion: A Cautious Path Forward for Ohtani and the Dodgers In summary, the Los Angeles Dodgers are navigating a challenging period with their pitching staff while managing the recovery of Shohei Ohtani. 1. **Ohtani's Return**: He is expected to return to pitching only after the All-Star break, as confirmed by manager Dave Roberts. 2. **Injury Management**: The Dodgers are currently facing a significant injury crisis, with three starters on the injured list, yet Roberts remains committed to a cautious approach regarding Ohtani's health. 3. **Fan Anticipation**: Despite the delays, there is a strong desire among fans to see Ohtani back on the mound, reflecting his status as a key player for the team. The Dodgers' strategy emphasizes long-term health and performance over short-term gains, ensuring that Ohtani's return is both safe and effective [https://www.essentiallysports.com/mlb-baseball-news-dave-roberts-reveals-shohei-ohtanis-pitching-return-timeline-in-massive-update-amid-dodgers-injury-crisis].