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Dodgers fans received an encouraging update Saturday as Shohei Ohtani resumed throwing, beginning another important step toward a possible return to the mound during the regular season. The two-way star played catch before Los Angeles faced the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field, marking his first visible throwing session in more than two weeks.
Ohtani started the workout in the visitors’ bullpen, where he threw plyometric exercises before moving onto the field for catch play. He appeared to throw out to approximately 90 feet. The session represented his first throwing activity since a bullpen workout in Philadelphia on July 22, after which the Dodgers paused his progression because of lingering soreness in his left knee.
Dodgers See Shohei Ohtani Take a Critical Step
The latest development does not guarantee that Ohtani will pitch again soon, but it keeps that possibility firmly on the table. His last start as a pitcher came on July 3, and the delay has now extended beyond a month. Before the setback, Ohtani had delivered an impressive campaign, going 8-2 with a 1.79 ERA across 14 starts.
While his pitching schedule has been interrupted, Ohtani has continued to serve as the Dodgers’ designated hitter. He has indicated that his knee discomfort, along with a minor issue involving his right biceps, has not affected him to the same degree at the plate.
Following a multihomer performance earlier in the week, Ohtani said his condition was improving “day by day.” However, he also stressed the importance of avoiding an overly aggressive timetable. The Dodgers appear to be following that cautious approach, prioritizing a complete recovery over a rushed return.
What Ohtani’s Throwing Progression Looks Like
Ohtani’s return to pitching will involve several stages before he is ready to appear in a game. The Dodgers are expected to gradually increase the distance and intensity of his catch play before moving him into a long-toss program.
- Continue extending catch-play distance over several days.
- Begin a structured long-toss progression.
- Resume bullpen sessions once his arm and knee respond well.
- Face live hitters before entering a competitive game.
- Build toward a controlled major league appearance.
This process may take time. Last season, Ohtani’s bullpen progression following his second major elbow surgery lasted months, although he needed only three live batting-practice sessions before pitching in a game. The circumstances are different this year, but the Dodgers have far less time remaining in the regular season to build him up.
Surprising Dodgers Plan Could Feature Ohtani as an Opener
If Ohtani returns to the mound, the Dodgers may not immediately use him as a traditional starting pitcher. Instead, the club could deploy him as a multi-inning opener, allowing him to contribute without requiring a full starter’s workload.
Manager Dave Roberts has already suggested that the team would welcome any meaningful innings Ohtani can provide. He said whether Ohtani pitches one, two or three innings is not the central concern because every contribution would be valuable from a two-way player managing a complicated comeback.
That approach could also carry into the postseason. A short, carefully managed appearance would give the Dodgers another strategic option while limiting the physical demands placed on Ohtani. It could allow him to influence a game without forcing the team to treat him like a fully stretched-out starter.
September Return Remains Possible
The ideal scenario would have Ohtani back on the mound in early to mid-September. A return during that window would provide more time to increase his workload before the postseason begins. Still, the Dodgers will need to evaluate each stage individually, especially because the original issue involves his left knee.
For now, Saturday’s catch session should be viewed as a positive sign rather than a firm timetable. Ohtani has many checkpoints ahead, including long toss, bullpen work and live hitters. Any setback could push his return later or change how he is used.
Even while recovering as a pitcher, Ohtani remains one of the most important offensive players in the Dodgers lineup. His continued production as a designated hitter gives Los Angeles flexibility, while his potential return to pitching could provide a major boost during the season’s most important stretch.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Shohei Ohtani resume throwing?
Ohtani resumed playing catch on August 8, 2026, before the Dodgers’ game against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field.
Why was Ohtani removed from the Dodgers’ pitching schedule?
Lingering soreness in his left knee caused the Dodgers to pause his throwing progression after a bullpen session on July 22.
What is Ohtani’s pitching record this season?
Ohtani has an 8-2 record with a 1.79 ERA through 14 starts this season.
Could Ohtani return as a full-time starter?
The Dodgers may initially use him as a multi-inning opener rather than a fully stretched-out starter. His eventual role will depend on how his rehabilitation progresses.
