Months after undergoing surgeries on his left shoulder and throwing elbow, Shohei Ohtani, the two-time MVP, will not be in the lineup for the Dodgers’ spring training opener. The absence of Ohtani, who signed a monumental $700 million, 10-year contract as a free agent in December, raises concerns among fans and team management alike. Let’s delve into the details of his recovery and the implications for the Dodgers’ upcoming season.

Surgery and Recovery

Late last year, Ohtani underwent two significant surgeries, first on his left shoulder in November, followed by a procedure on his throwing elbow. These surgeries have effectively ruled him out from pitching this season, marking a notable setback for the star player and the Dodgers alike. Despite this setback, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has expressed optimism about Ohtani’s progress physically, indicating that the player is on a promising path toward recovery.

Delayed Return as a Hitter

While pitching may be off the table for Ohtani in the upcoming season, there was hope to see him contribute as a hitter during spring training. However, his absence from the spring training opener suggests that his return as a hitter will also be delayed. This setback presents a challenge for the Dodgers as they prepare for the upcoming season.

Optimistic Goals

Despite the setback, there are still optimistic goals set for Ohtani’s return. The aim is to have him ready as a hitter by the March 20 opener against the Padres in Seoul, South Korea. Achieving this target would be crucial for the Dodgers, as they seek to maximize Ohtani’s impact on the team’s performance.

Implications for the Dodgers

Ohtani’s absence poses significant implications for the Dodgers, both in the short and long term. In the short term, the team will have to navigate the spring training period without one of its star players, potentially affecting their preparation for the upcoming season. In the long term, Ohtani’s recovery timeline will influence the team’s strategies and lineup decisions throughout the season.

Navigating Challenges Ahead

As Shohei Ohtani continues his recovery journey from surgeries, the Dodgers face challenges in adjusting their plans for the upcoming season. While his absence from the spring training opener is disappointing, there remains optimism about his eventual return as a hitter. The team will need to adapt and strategize effectively to overcome this hurdle and maximize Ohtani’s impact when he returns to the lineup.

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