Shohei Ohtani Throws Bullpen Session as Dodgers Eye His Return

Shohei Ohtani has taken a significant step towards returning to the mound for the Los Angeles Dodgers by completing his first bullpen session since July 3. This session involved 34 pitches using his full pitch repertoire, following a period of recovery from knee and biceps injuries.

General Manager Brandon Gomes noted that the focus is on gradually increasing Ohtani's volume and intensity, with the next steps depending on how he feels in the coming days. Manager Dave Roberts indicated that Ohtani may need to complete one or two more bullpen sessions and face hitters in live batting practice before rejoining the rotation.

Ohtani, who has a 1.79 ERA and 95 strikeouts in 85 ⅔ innings this season, is expected to return to pitching in early September. The Dodgers, currently leading the NL West, are managing their rotation carefully as they prepare for the postseason.