Shohei Ohtani underwent arthroscopic surgery on Tuesday to repair a torn labrum in his left shoulder, an injury he sustained during Game 2 of the World Series on October 26. The Los Angeles Dodgers announced that Ohtani is expected to be ready for spring training in February.
The injury occurred when Ohtani attempted to steal second base, leading to a dislocation of his non-throwing shoulder. Despite the pain, he played through the discomfort in the following three games, contributing to the Dodgers’ victory over the New York Yankees in five games to clinch the championship.
Dr. Neal ElAttrache, the Dodgers’ head physician, performed the surgery in Los Angeles. Prior to the injury, the team had hoped Ohtani could resume his throwing program earlier than usual this offseason, with an eye toward returning to a two-way role in 2025. However, it remains unclear how this surgery will affect that timeline.
Ohtani’s injury was initially described as a subluxation, or slight dislocation, but it became evident that it was more severe than first reported. During the World Series, he struggled at the plate, recording just one hit in 11 at-bats while visibly wincing in pain after some swings.
This marks another significant surgery for Ohtani, who previously underwent a procedure on his pitching arm earlier in 2024. Despite these challenges, he concluded the season with historic achievements, becoming the first player in Major League Baseball history to record at least 50 home runs and 50 stolen bases in a single season.
The Dodgers are optimistic about Ohtani’s recovery as they prepare for the 2025 season, which will kick off with games in Tokyo against the Chicago Cubs on March 18-19. As Ohtani works towards regaining full strength, fans and teammates are hopeful for his return to form as both a pitcher and hitter.
Despite going just 1 for 11 at the plate with a walk during the World Series after his injury, Ohtani’s presence in the lineup was crucial for a team that had depended on his performance throughout the season. The 30-year-old had an extraordinary regular season, making history as the first player to hit at least 50 home runs and steal 50 bases in a single season.
Last year, he signed a groundbreaking 10-year, $700 million contract with the Dodgers.
It remains uncertain whether the recent surgery will impact Ohtani’s plans to return as a pitcher in 2025. He had previously undergone surgery on his throwing elbow last offseason, which sidelined him from pitching in 2024.
The Dodgers are scheduled to begin spring training in early February, ahead of most other teams, due to their participation in the Tokyo Series against the Chicago Cubs on March 18 and 19.
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