Shohei Ohtani has not lost his exceptional two-way abilities despite focusing solely on hitting for much of the past two years.

The Dodgers star was baseball's ultimate two-way player before his elbow surgery in the fall of 2023, combining impressive velocity, precision, power, and speed.

Even while recovering as a pitcher, Ohtani has remained among the elite in MLB. He signed the largest contract in league history during the 2024 offseason, delivered one of the most outstanding power-speed seasons on record to win his third MVP, and led his team to a World Series victory in the postseason.

Life has been successful for Ohtani despite not pitching, but his determination to return to full two-way form is unwavering.

Shohei Ohtani's pitching return

Ohtani is set to make his highly anticipated return to pitching on Monday as the Dodgers face the Padres, according to manager Dave Roberts' announcement on Sunday.

Roberts had planned for Ohtani to participate in another live batting practice session this week, but the reigning MVP was eager to return, as Roberts noted. The Japanese star convinced team officials to allow him a brief appearance in an actual game instead.

“He’s ready to pitch in a major-league game,” Roberts said, via the Orange County Register. “He let us know that.”

After consulting with pitching coach Mark Prior and president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman, Roberts and the team decided to let Ohtani pitch briefly against the Padres.

“The live, simulated sessions have served their purpose,” Roberts said.

Ohtani has completed three simulated batting practice sessions over the past three weeks. His latest session involved pitching three innings and throwing 44 pitches last Tuesday.

“It’s very exciting," Roberts said. "As a baseball fan first, the anticipation for this game is incredible. It’s going to be electric when it happens. We’ve handled the process correctly by communicating with Shohei and ensuring everything feels right.”

Ohtani is expected to pitch one or two innings before being relieved by right-hander Ben Casparius, according to Roberts. He will gradually increase his outings, likely pitching once a week until the All-Star break. Ohtani has been reaching velocities of around 95 mph in bullpen sessions during spring training. His enthusiasm for even short appearances has boosted the team's confidence in this adjusted plan, despite deviating from the original schedule.

“A week ago, we were discussing another live batting practice and possibly extending to four innings," Roberts said. "But given his confidence, it’s time for him to pitch in a game.”