Shohei Ohtani has given the Dodgers a big boost in his recovery from Tommy John surgery.
The two-way star, who signed a massive 10-year, $700 million contract with Los Angeles this past offseason, has been unable to pitch this season after undergoing the elbow procedure in September.
But Ohtani told reporters Monday that he had started throwing 60 feet (the normal length from mound to home plate) last week and hit 80 mph.
“Just progressively increasing the distance,” Ohtani said through an interpreter, via ESPN.
‘Usually between 60 and 70 pitches, at that distance. Continue to increase distance and throws, and see where it goes. “I’m not really sure how far I’m going to go, but that’s the progression.”
Shohei Ohtani said he started throwing 60 feet while recovering from Tommy John surgery.
He continues to excel at the plate this season, with a league-leading .336 average and 13 home runs.
Since his MLB debut in 2018, Ohtani has excelled as a hitter and pitcher, posting a 3.01 ERA and winning the MVP award in 2021 and 2023.
He has been tremendous at the plate this season with a league-leading .336 average in 53 games as the Dodgers’ designated hitter.
Ohtani has also hit 13 home runs so far.
With the help of the Japanese superstar, the Dodgers lead the National League West Division with a record of 33-22.
Their scheduled game against the Mets on Monday was postponed due to rain.