Ohtani Takes Big Step in Recovery with Bullpen Session

Subheading: Dodgers Star Throws 10 Pitches, Marks First Time on Mound Since Elbow Surgery

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – Shohei Ohtani, the Los Angeles Dodgers’ star player, took a significant step in his recovery from elbow surgery on Saturday, throwing 10 pitches in a bullpen session at Dodger Stadium.

Ohtani, who underwent surgery to repair the torn UCL in his pitching elbow in September 2023, is not expected to pitch again until next season. However, his brief trip to the mound marked a major milestone in his rehabilitation process.

The 28-year-old right-hander threw 10 pitches, marking his first time on the mound since his surgery. While the session was brief, it was a significant step forward for Ohtani, who has been hitting for the Dodgers while he recovers and prepares to pitch again next season.

Ohtani’s season has been nothing short of remarkable, as he became the fastest player in Major League Baseball history to join the 40-40 club on Friday night. He hit a walk-off grand slam to beat the Tampa Bay Rays at Dodger Stadium, and has been dominating on the mound and at the plate.

The Dodgers entered Saturday’s game against the Rays on a five-game win streak and with a 77-52 record, which has them in a 3.5-game lead in the NL West. Despite Ohtani’s home run in the fifth, the Rays forced extra innings and then picked up the win in the 10th after a two-run homer from Jose Caballero.

While it will still be a while before Ohtani takes the mound again, Saturday’s trip to the bullpen marked a significant step forward in his recovery.