Dodgers Delay Shohei Ohtani’s Pitching Comeback to Prioritize Health

The team has paused Ohtani's bullpen sessions, citing a cautious approach to his dual-role recovery from multiple surgeries.

Shohei Ohtani has not thrown a bullpen session since February 25, as the Dodgers adjust his pitching rehab to focus on his readiness as a hitter.
The decision to slow Ohtani’s pitching progression was made collaboratively, aiming to avoid overloading him during his return from Tommy John and shoulder surgeries.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has refrained from setting a specific timeline for Ohtani's return to the mound, though May was previously suggested as a target.
Ohtani will continue as the team’s designated hitter and is preparing for the Tokyo Series against the Chicago Cubs on March 18 and 19.
The Dodgers emphasize long-term health and postseason readiness for Ohtani, leveraging their deep pitching rotation to allow a patient recovery process.