Ohtani Nears Mound Return as Sasaki's Season Paused

Shohei Ohtani may be returning to the pitcher's mound in the next couple of weeks. Meanwhile, Los Angeles Dodgers rookie right-hander Roki Sasaki has paused his throwing program and is facing a significant period of inactivity.

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts announced that Ohtani will throw to hitters for the fourth time this week. This could potentially be the final batting practice session before his first major league pitching appearance since August 23, 2023, when he played for the Los Angeles Angels. Roberts noted Ohtani's eagerness and excitement, suggesting that the team would prefer to utilize his energy in actual game situations rather than live batting practice.

Ohtani, a three-time MVP, currently boasts a .290 batting average, a league-leading 1.023 OPS, and 25 home runs. The Dodgers have been relying on bullpen games due to injuries to key pitchers, including Sasaki (right shoulder impingement), Blake Snell (left shoulder inflammation), and Tyler Glasnow (right shoulder inflammation). Roberts believes that any contribution Ohtani can make on the mound would be beneficial, even if it's just for a few innings.

Sasaki hasn't pitched in a game since May 9 and is not part of the team's long-term pitching plans for this season. Roberts emphasized the importance of a cautious approach, considering the demands of being a starting pitcher and the necessary build-up for a return. Sasaki, who joined the Dodgers from the Pacific League's Chiba Lotte Marines, had a 1-1 record with a 4.72 ERA in eight starts, averaging less than 4 1/3 innings per start. He walked 22 and struck out 24 in 34 1/3 innings, with his fastball averaging 95.7 mph, a decrease from his average in Japan.

Although Sasaki was pain-free when he resumed throwing in early June, he was shut down after experiencing discomfort this past week. He recently received a cortisone injection in his shoulder, and no further scans are planned. Roberts described the sensation as possibly discomfort or tightness, and stated that the team will not push Sasaki to do anything he's not comfortable with.