Los Angeles Dodgers encouraged as Shohei Ohtani throws bullpen session

Shohei Ohtani has taken a significant step toward returning to the mound for the Los Angeles Dodgers by completing a 35-pitch bullpen session following a left knee injury.

The two-way star has not pitched since 3 July while recovering from the issue, but manager Dave Roberts remains optimistic about a regular-season return.

Roberts confirmed that reports from Friday’s workout were entirely positive, noting that the Japanese international successfully utilised his entire array of pitches.

Careful progression for two-way star

Barring any unexpected setbacks, the hope is for the 32-year-old to throw one or two more bullpen sessions before advancing his rehabilitation.

He would then require at least two live practice sessions against hitters before being cleared to pitch in a major league game.

Upon his eventual return, Roberts stated the prolific talent would initially be limited to one-inning appearances, which could include serving as an opener.

“I’m pretty confident that if we stay the course, he’ll throw a [bullpen session] in two, three, four, five days, and then if we get out of that, I think we’ll be out of the woods,” Roberts said.

Maintaining dominance at the plate

Despite his pitching absence, the designated hitter has remained highly productive in the batter’s box for the National League contenders.

Following a 3-1 victory over the Milwaukee Brewers on Friday, he currently boasts a .290 batting average alongside 27 home runs and 74 runs batted in.

His numbers on the mound are equally impressive this season, having compiled an 8-2 record with a stellar 1.79 ERA and 95 strikeouts across 85 and two-thirds innings.