Shohei Ohtani avoids surgery and targets his return as a pitcher in 2027
Good news for the Los Angeles Dodgers fanbase. Andrew Friedman, the franchise’s president of baseball operations, confirmed that superstar Shohei Ohtani will not require surgical intervention to treat the ailments in his right bicep and left knee that plagued him during the 2026 season.
Following a campaign where the Japanese star demonstrated his impact both at the plate and from the mound, the organization is now focusing on a load management plan to ensure the player can remain healthy throughout the year, especially heading into the postseason stage.
A necessary balance for success
During the past season, Ohtani was a key piece for the Dodgers, leading the team with 30 home runs and maintaining an OPS of .889. In his role as a pitcher, he recorded a 1.79 ERA in 14 starts. However, physical injuries limited his participation in the second half of the schedule:
- He ceased his duties as a pitcher after his July 3rd appearance.
- His offensive production showed a notable decline starting in mid-August.
- In the postseason, he recorded a .192 batting average, with a single extra-base hit: a three-run home run in the National League Championship Series.
The team will need to carefully evaluate how to manage his participation as a hitter and pitcher to keep him healthy throughout the campaign and in optimal condition for the postseason.
Andrew Friedman, President of Baseball Operations for the Dodgers.
Strategy for the future
Faced with the need to protect their most valuable asset, the Dodgers’ front office is considering not having Ohtani join the starting rotation from day one of the 2027 season, even if his physical condition were to allow it. Management’s priority is to establish a balance that allows him to exploit his talent in both facets without compromising his physical integrity.
The challenge for the organization is unprecedented: never before has Ohtani managed to complete a full season in the two-way player role and arrive in peak form for the October commitments. Therefore, constant communication with the player will be the fundamental pillar for designing a work schedule that optimizes his long-term performance at Alofoke Deportes.
