Riddled by injuries so far this season, the Los Angeles Dodgers rotation could be getting an infusion of Shohei Ohtani sooner than expected.
Ohtani, who underwent Tommy John surgery after his making his last regular-season start for the Los Angeles Angels on August 23, 2023, threw three simulated innings on Tuesday in another step toward returning to the mound.
The simulated outing, happening in San Diego before the Dodgers and Padres met in the second game of a clash between National League West rivals, seemed to impress manager Dave Roberts, pitching coach Mark Prior and other members of the Dodgers organization.
Facing live minor league batters, Ohtani recorded six strikeouts in his 44-pitch workout. He allowed one hit and one walk while also uncorking a wild pitch.