Ohtani returns to the mound

Shohei Ohtani will start for the Los Angeles Dodgers tonight against the San Diego Padres, 21 months after undergoing Tommy John surgery on his right elbow.

The team made the announcement following last night's 5-4 victory over the San Francisco Giants.

Ohtani is expected to start the four-game homestand when the NL West-leading Padres host the Padres.

Ohtani hasn't pitched in a game since August 23, 2023, when he was injured during a start for the Angels against Cincinnati. He underwent Tommy John surgery on October 1, 2018, and right elbow surgery on September 19, 2023.

In his second season of a 10-year, $700 million contract, Ohtani paused his pitching preparations after a mound session on February 25 to focus on being ready as a hitter for Opening Day. He resumed bullpen sessions on March 29 and batting practice on March 25.

A three-time MVP, Ohtani is hitting .297 with a 1.035 OPS (best in the National League), 25 home runs, and 41 RBIs (stats through June 15). He only hit last year in his first season with the Dodgers, where he posted a .290 average, 54 home runs, 130 RBIs, and 59 stolen bases.

Roberts also reported yesterday that rookie right-hander Roki Sasaki is likely out for an extended period. Sasaki hasn't pitched in a game since May 9 and isn't part of the team's long-term pitching plans this season.— AP