Shohei Ohtani completed three simulated innings Tuesday at Petco Park, throwing 44 pitches in his latest pitching progression session. Dave Roberts indicated there is a \"north of zero\" chance Ohtani returns to the rotation before the All-Star break, according to ESPN reports.
The two-way star struck out six batters and allowed one walk during the session against Los Angeles Dodgers minor leaguers. Ohtani also incorporated game situations including pitching from the stretch and using the pitch clock.
Dodgers Leverage Two-Way Player Designation
Ohtani\'s MLB two-way player designation allows him to pitch without counting toward the team\'s 13-pitcher limit. This roster flexibility enables the Dodgers to bring him back in a limited role initially, potentially making two- to three-inning starts with a piggyback starter following.
The accelerated timeline reflects the Dodgers\' current pitching needs. Fourteen pitchers currently occupy the injured list, including starters Blake Snell, Tyler Glasnow, Roki Sasaki and Tony Gonsolin.
\"It certainly doesn\'t have to be a full buildup, because anything that he can give us is certainly additive,\" Roberts said.
Recovery Timeline Adjusts for Shoulder Surgery
Ohtani\'s pitching progression was delayed after he tore his left shoulder labrum during Game 2 of the World Series. The injury required offseason surgery and pushed his throwing program into spring training.
Dr. Neal ElAttrache, who performed Ohtani\'s second Tommy John surgery in September 2023, continues overseeing the recovery timeline. The team has maintained a cautious approach, recently pushing back a session after Ohtani fouled a ball off his foot.
\"I\'m sure Shohei is tempted to just rip the Band-Aid off for a big league game. But I think we\'ve done a good job of just being patient,\" Roberts said.
Ohtani will continue weekly simulated games with bullpen sessions between outings until the Dodgers determine he is ready for game action.