Shohei Ohtani to Pitch for the Dodgers in Spring Training Game Against the Giants This Wednesday

Shohei Ohtani Set for Spring Training Pitching Debut

Shohei Ohtani is poised to make his first pitching appearance of the spring training season on Wednesday, taking the mound for the Los Angeles Dodgers against the San Francisco Giants.

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts confirmed on Tuesday that Ohtani will also serve as the designated hitter in Friday’s matchup against the San Diego Padres, as he prepares for the season opener on March 26.

Ohtani recently returned to the Dodgers’ camp at Camelback Ranch following Japan’s elimination in the quarterfinals of the World Baseball Classic. Although he did not pitch for Japan during the tournament, Ohtani participated in bullpen sessions to maintain his readiness.

“I think three to four (innings) is fair for tomorrow,” Roberts stated. “It’s more of just doing what we can with what we have left to get him ready for the season. He did his part when he was with Team Japan, and now you’re putting him in against real competition, build him up there, and try to get as much buildup before the season starts."

Roberts indicated that Ohtani is slated to pitch in an additional preseason game against the Los Angeles Angels on March 23 or 24. This schedule suggests that Ohtani may not make his first regular-season start until the team’s second series against the Cleveland Guardians.

Last season, Ohtani posted an impressive 2.87 ERA over 14 regular-season starts after recovering from an elbow injury. He also contributed to the Dodgers’ success in the postseason, finishing with a 2-1 record and a 4.43 ERA, helping the team secure its second consecutive World Series title.