Dodgers' Shohei Ohtani Says He's a 'Hitter Who Learned How to Pitch'

Los Angeles Dodgers two-way star Shohei Ohtani revealed that he grew up as a hitter before developing his pitching talent.

"I feel like I was more talented as a hitter growing up, and it was hard for me to pitch, actually," Ohtani said through an interpreter during an appearance on the Pat McAfee Show. "So, I feel like I'm more of a hitter who learned how to pitch more than a pitcher learning how to hit."

Ohtani is in the midst of his second season as a member of the Dodgers and currently leads the National League with 32 home runs.

The three-time MVP has also racked up 12 doubles, seven triples, 62 walks and 60 RBIs while slashing .276/.382/.605.

Ohtani operated as a key member of the Los Angeles Angels' rotation prior to joining the Dodgers, owning a 38-19 record to go along with a 3.01 ERA and 1.082 WHIP in 86 starts. He also averaged 11.4 strikeouts per nine innings with the Angels and finished No. 4 in 2022 American League Cy Young voting.

The 31-year-old wasn't available to pitch during his first year on the Dodgers after undergoing elbow surgery in Sept. 2023, but has steadily made his return to the mound in 2025.

Ohtani has thrown nine innings across five appearances this year, allowing five hits and one earned run while striking out 10 batters and giving up two walks.

He's steadily ramped up his workload as of late, throwing a season-high 36 pitches in three scoreless innings during Los Angeles' 2-1 victory over the San Francisco Giants on Saturday.

Ohtani won't pitch in the 2025 MLB All-Star Game, but he is set to bat leadoff for the NL squad.

The All-Star Game will begin on Tuesday at 8 p.m. ET.