Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts expressed optimism about the progress of two key players, Mookie Betts and Shohei Ohtani, ahead of the team’s stateside opener against the Detroit Tigers.
Mookie Betts, who had been struggling with an illness that forced him to lose 18 pounds, went through a full workout at Dodger Stadium on Monday and is now expected to play in the final exhibition game at Angel Stadium on Tuesday. Roberts believes Betts will likely play in the Dodgers’ stateside opener on Thursday.
Shohei Ohtani, who underwent a 32-day break from pitching after February 25, has been gradually rebuilding his strength as a starting pitcher and is scheduled to resume throwing off a mound on Saturday. However, the Dodgers are taking it slow, prioritizing Ohtani’s focus on playing in the lineup as their designated hitter this season.
Despite facing setbacks, including two bouts of vomiting, Ohtani continued to play catch and keep his arm active over the past four weeks. To build up enough strength for a starter’s workload, he needs several bullpen sessions and simulated games. Roberts emphasized that there is no set timeline for Ohtani’s return as a starting pitcher.
The key to success in 2025 lies in Betts’ ability to excel both as a hitter and a fielder throughout the entire season, including October. Meanwhile, Ohtani will need to balance his responsibilities as a starting pitcher with playing in the lineup. The Dodgers are taking it slow but aim to keep their top players on the field for the entire season.
Source: https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/44392023/betts-illness-trending-return-dodgers-opener