Ohtani was expected to be a hitter only in his first season with the Dodgers, but the team hoped he could resume the two-way responsibilities that made him a superstar by Opening Day of this year. That obviously hasn't happened, as a torn labrum in his non-throwing shoulder sustained in the 2024 World Series threw off his offseason rehab timetable.

In the last season that he pitched in 2023, Ohtani had a 3.13 ERA, a 1.06 WHIP and a 10-5 record, helping him earn a second AL MVP. Unfortunately, his season on the mound was cut short as he underwent surgery for a UCL tear in his right elbow in September. Since then, he's been on the road to recovery.

Instead of throwing another live batting practice session this week, Ohtani will pitch an inning or two on Monday against the Padres, marking his first game action on the mound since elbow surgery