Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Dodgers took to the mound on Saturday for the first time since undergoing elbow surgery last fall, which has sidelined him from pitching this season. Ohtani has been drawing attention for his impressive batting while recovering from his elbow injury. On Friday night, he hit a grand slam in the ninth inning against the Tampa Bay Rays, bringing his home run total to 40. Earlier in the fourth inning, he stole a base, reaching 40 stolen bases.
Ohtani is the fastest player in history to reach the 40-40 milestone, accomplishing the feat in just his 126th game of the season.
He threw 10 pitches during a bullpen session at Dodger Stadium, closely watched by a large media contingent. Ohtani’s surgery took place last September after he injured his elbow while playing for the Los Angeles Angels. Three months after the surgery, he signed a $700 million, 10-year contract with the Dodgers.
The Dodgers have made it clear that Ohtani will not pitch at all this season, including in the postseason. For now, he continues to contribute to the team as a designated hitter.
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