Shohei Ohtani could return to pitching Sunday, as an opener in front of Tyler Glasnow

Shohei Ohtani's potential return to pitching for the Los Angeles Dodgers is imminent, according to manager Dave Roberts. The Dodgers star will first throw a bullpen session on Friday, and if his performance is satisfactory, he could make his first start on Sunday against the Detroit Tigers. This opening game would see Ohtani pitch just one inning, serving as the opening pitcher.

Tyler Glasnow, who recently returned from back spasms, remains scheduled to pitch on Sunday, with Ohtani providing support as the bulk pitcher if he is ready. Ohtani has been sidelined since July 3 due to a knee issue that has also affected his biceps. During his absence, Ohtani has continued playing as a designated hitter, vying for the NL MVP title alongside Chicago Cubs outfielder Pete Crow-Armstrong.

Unlike other pitchers who would typically undergo a rehab assignment after their lengthy absence, the Dodgers have chosen to bypass this step for Ohtani. Instead, he will integrate his rehabilitation directly into the major league lineup, gradually increasing his workload. This approach mirrors his successful strategy last year when he returned from a more significant injury, starting with one-inning starts and progressively building up to longer outings.

The Dodgers' impending postseason, just five weeks away, adds urgency to Ohtani's recovery. Although the team boasts a formidable rotation featuring Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Tarik Skubal, Blake Snell, and Glasnow, they clearly value having Ohtani fully fit for October.