Shohei Ohtani Gives Big Injury Update Ahead of Opening Day
The Los Angeles Dodgers made waves in the offseason when they signed one of the biggest stars in the game. The Dodgers and Shohei Ohtani agreed to a 10-year, $700 million deal, inking the largest contract in sports history.
The excitement around Los Angeles is through the roof as we inch closer to Opening Day. Spring Training for the Dodgers has begun and Ohtani is around his new teammates.
Ohtani's 2023 season was cut short due to a torn UCL in his right elbow. He underwent surgery to repair it in September and is expected to be free of restrictions as a batter in 2024.
The 29-year-old participated in batting practice for the first time and believes he could be ready to suit on Opening Day. Ohtani said, "I felt like the swings were feeling really good, which is a really good sign."
Shohei Ohtani on his batting practice today: "I felt like the swings were feeling really good, which is a really good sign. I think it’s trending towards me being ready for Opening Day.”
— Fabian Ardaya (@FabianArdaya) February 12, 2024
According to Juan Toribio of MLB.com, Ohtani took 21 swings at batting practice, smacking 10 home runs. We all know it's early but that's certainly an encouraging sign.
Wow, Shohei. 😳 pic.twitter.com/ifYb2cHVzY
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) February 12, 2024
In 135 games with the Los Angeles Angels in 2023, Ohtani had a career-high .304 batting average with 151 hits, 44 home runs, and 95 RBIs.
The anticipation for Dodgers fans is arguably at an all-time high due to the flurry of moves made over the offseason. Despite going 100-62 last season, the year ended with a disappointing loss to the Arizona Diamondbacks in the NLDS.
Ohtani is one of the major additions Los Angeles made over the past few months to ensure they are loaded for another postseason run.
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