Ohtani Pitches One Inning in Dodgers Comeback

Shohei Ohtani made his pitching return for the Los Angeles Dodgers on Monday night against the San Diego Padres, his first appearance since undergoing Tommy John surgery in September 2023. Ohtani pitched one inning, allowing two hits and one run while reaching 100 mph with his fastball. Despite striking out in his first at-bat, he insisted on remaining the Dodgers' leadoff hitter, even as manager Dave Roberts considered a change. The game drew 56,000 fans to Dodger Stadium, highlighting immense public interest in his comeback. Ohtani continues to lead the National League in home runs and All-Star votes and is in the second season of a 10-year, $700 million contract. The Dodgers are managing Ohtani's pitching workload cautiously, utilizing him as an opener following his recovery.