Dodgers' Shohei Ohtani Discusses Progression in Elbow Injury Rehab After Surgery

Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani said on Monday that he is making progress in his recovery from Tommy John surgery, per ESPN's Jorge Castillo.

According to Castillo, Ohtani began throwing from 60 feet last week and reached 80 mph.

"Just progressively increasing the distance," Ohtani said. "Usually anywhere from 60-70 pitches, in that distance. Just continuing to increase the distance and the pitches, and just seeing where that goes. I'm not quite sure how far I'm going to go out there, but that's the progression."

Ohtani has not pitched since last August when he was still with the Los Angeles Angels. In 23 appearances last season, Ohtani notched a 10-5 record with a 3.14 ERA and 167 strikeouts. He underwent Tommy John surgery in September of last year, ending his season on the mound.

While the Dodgers are likely eager to get Ohtani back on the mound, the 2023 AL MVP has had an outstanding season as a designated hitter this season. He currently has a .336 batting average and has picked up 131 total bases—both numbers the best in the majors. He also leads the NL in slugging percentage and OPS.

In 53 games, Ohtani has notched 13 homers and 35 RBI, good for seventh and 14th-best in the majors, respectively.

The Dodgers sit at the top of the NL West at 33-22, though they have lost their last five games and are looking to get back on track against the New York Mets this week.

Los Angeles is looking to bounce back from back-to-back divisional series exits with a big postseason this year. With the addition of Ohtani, reaching a World Series seems well within reach for the Dodgers. When the star is back on the mound, it could lead to even more success for Los Angeles.