Shohei Ohtani, the 30-year-old baseball phenomenon, is anticipated to have another impactful season with the Los Angeles Dodgers as he aims to reclaim his two-way prowess. Following his recovery from shoulder surgery sustained during the World Series, Ohtani is focused on returning to form, as confirmed by Dodgers’ GM Gomes, who noted, "He’s working on his swings, but hasn’t yet swung at any pitches." Ohtani competes with the added motivation of leading his team to back-to-back championships.
Reflecting on his past achievements, Ohtani recalled the exhilarating experience of participating in the championship celebrations, stating, "It was my first time experiencing something like this, and I thought it was something really special." He also expressed his goals candidly, confirming his primary focus on repeating the World Series victory, establishing himself as a leading force once again.
Last year, Ohtani's achievements were not just limited to the field; he took home the MVP award, solidifying his status among the elite of Major League Baseball. "Of course, I’m aiming to pitch and hit from the start of the season," he asserted, reflecting his determination to recover and maintain high performance levels. Yet, reports indicate he may not return to pitching until as late as May, contingent upon how his rehabilitation progresses.
Specifics of Ohtani's contract are yet to be disclosed publicly, but sources indicate he secured a substantial deal worth $700 million, giving him significant securement and leverage for the Dodgers to maintain competitive prowess. Comparatively, teammate Teoscar Hernandez recently signed for three years at $66 million, where over 64% of his salary is set to be deferred payments. This trend is reflective of how MLB teams are currently structuring contracts to maintain financial flexibility.
The Dodgers have high expectations for their future, not only from Ohtani’s expected return but also with key players like Mookie Betts and the acquisition of highly regarded pitcher Roki Sasaki. With ESPN's power rankings placing the Dodgers at the top, the narrative is clear; the franchise aims for unprecedented success.
Ohtani's ability to perform exceptionally across both pitching and hitting roles makes him uniquely valuable. Historically, players who can deliver on both fronts are rare, yet Ohtani's dual threats have set him apart from his contemporaries. His approach to his recovery includes mentioning the adverse effects of prolonged sun exposure on performance, which he is addressing actively as he focuses on maintaining his health and performance.
The MLB's recent rules changes have also amplified Ohtani's significance within the league. With restrictions limiting rostered pitchers to 13, his eligibility as a two-way player allows the Dodgers to maximize roster space without sacrificing their pitching depth. This strategic advantage could become increasingly pivotal as the season progresses.
Beyond the field, Ohtani is set to experience momentous personal changes, as he and his wife are expecting their first child, adding another layer of joy and responsibility to his career as he navigates the upcoming season.
According to MLB’s official announcements, Ohtani is projected to take part fully in spring training, and with everything coming together, the atmosphere surrounding his comeback is nothing short of electrifying. Ohtani’s dedication to rehabilitation seems promising, as both he and Gomes are optimistic about what’s next.
With 2025 drawing near, hopes are high for Ohtani and the Dodgers as they eye yet another title. The coming months will not just dictate the course of his professional career but will also redefine what it means to be a dual-threat athlete at the major league level. Fans across the globe eagerly await to see if Ohtani can not only return to form but flourish back on the diamond.