Shohei Ohtani allowed an early run in his pitching debut for the Los Angeles Dodgers, but quickly made up for it with two clutch hits and a pair of RBIs in a 6-3 victory over the San Diego Padres.

Shohei Ohtani allowed an early run in his pitching debut for the Los Angeles Dodgers, but quickly made up for it with two clutch hits and a pair of RBIs in a 6-3 victory over the San Diego Padres.

In the last season that he pitched in 2023, Ohtani had a 3.13 ERA, a 1.06 WHIP and a 10-5 record, helping him earn a second AL MVP. Unfortunately, his season on the mound was cut short as he underwent surgery for a UCL tear in his right elbow in September. Since then, he's been on the road to recovery.

There's no reason for Dodgers fans to fret. Ohtani was always expected to throw just an inning or two tonight as he slowly finds his rhythm again on the bump. Usually, when pitchers return from injuries, they throw a few rehab starts in the minor leagues. Of course, that's not possible for Ohtani, who is the best offensive player on his team, too.

Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts and the team announced that Shohei Ohtani will be the starting pitcher for Monday's game against the San Diego Padres.

After the San Francisco Giants acquired Rafael Devers, one of the Dodgers' starting pitchers, Clayton Kershaw, was very complimentary of the rival organization.

Not sure how much of this matters now, but Shohei Ohtani's numbers as a leadoff hitter when pitching weren't great. It's only 45 plate appearances, spread between 2021 and 2023, but he slashed .179/.289/.385. The numbers were much better at the 2/3 spots. (h/t @MattBirch12)

Los Angeles Dodgers two-way star Shohei Ohtani is making his pitching debut on Monday against the San Diego Padres, stepping on the mound for the first time in