Dodgers Star Ohtani Set to Pitch Wednesday Against Giants in Spring Training

Two-way baseball sensation Shohei Ohtani will take the mound Wednesday for his first spring training pitching appearance with the Los Angeles Dodgers. The Japanese superstar recently rejoined the team after competing in the World Baseball Classic and is preparing for the upcoming regular season.

GLENDALE, Ariz. — Two-way baseball superstar Shohei Ohtani will take the mound Wednesday for his inaugural spring training pitching performance with the Los Angeles Dodgers as they face off against the San Francisco Giants.

Dodgers skipper Dave Roberts announced Tuesday that the Japanese sensation will also serve as designated hitter during Friday’s matchup with the San Diego Padres, as the dual-threat player prepares for the March 26 season opener.

The four-time MVP recently rejoined the Dodgers at Camelback Ranch following Japan’s quarterfinal exit from the World Baseball Classic. While Ohtani didn’t take the mound for his national team during the tournament, he maintained his pitching form through bullpen work.

“I think three to four (innings) is fair for tomorrow,” Roberts explained. “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.”

According to Roberts, the team plans to have Ohtani pitch in one additional exhibition contest against the Los Angeles Angels on March 23 or 24.

This timeline suggests the right-handed pitcher likely won’t make his regular season debut until the Dodgers’ second series when they meet the Cleveland Guardians.

Last season, Ohtani posted a 2.87 ERA across 14 regular season starts following his comeback from elbow surgery. During the playoffs, he compiled a 2-1 record with a 4.43 ERA while contributing to the Dodgers’ consecutive World Series championship.