Shohei Ohtani pitching update: Dodgers star takes step forward with bullpen session
Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani has progressed in his recovery from a knee injury by participating in a bullpen session. Manager Dave Roberts noted the session was a positive sign, though Ohtani is not yet ready for a full return to the pitching rotation.
Why it matters
Ohtani's health is a major factor for the Dodgers' competitive outlook and the broader interest in his unique two-way playing style.
Shohei Ohtani took a step forward in his potential return to the mound for the Los Angeles Dodgers on Wednesday, July 22.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said Ohtani's bullpen session was a "big sign" the superstar is making progress toward rejoining the pitching rotation.
"It's a big sign because I think that the grass, the flat ground, all that stuff is well and good,” Roberts told reporters. “The arm's fine; it's more of just going down the slope, getting over your front side. That's the big test."
Ohtani was pulled from a scheduled start on the mound before the MLB All-Star break due to inflammation and irritation in his left knee.
Roberts stated on Wednesday that he “can't foresee (Ohtani) going out there and throwing 100 pitches on his first outing.”
Ohtani is expected to throw another bullpen session on Saturday, July 25 at Citi Field in New York.
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