What's happened
Shohei Ohtani is set to participate in a spring training game for the Dodgers this week, after returning early from the World Baseball Classic. He will serve as designated hitter on Friday and is expected to pitch in a preseason game soon, aiming to be ready for opening day on March 26.
What's behind the headline?
Ohtani's return to Dodgers camp marks a strategic effort to ramp up his readiness for the season. His participation in a game this week indicates confidence in his recovery from international play. The team aims to balance his workload, with a likely first regular-season start in the second series against the Cleveland Guardians. His performance last season, with a 2.87 ERA over 14 starts, underscores his value. The Dodgers are leveraging his versatility as both a hitter and pitcher, which will be crucial for their championship ambitions. This early return also signals the team's confidence in his health and the importance of his dual role for their success.
What the papers say
AP News reports that Ohtani will be the designated hitter in Friday's game and may pitch later this week, emphasizing his quick return from international duty. The Japan Times highlights his limited spring training play and early return to camp, noting the team's plans for his preseason appearances. The coverage from AP also details Yamamoto's recent World Series performance, providing context on the Dodgers' pitching strength, but focuses primarily on Ohtani's upcoming schedule and readiness.
How we got here
Ohtani, a Japanese star and four-time MVP, recently played with Japan in the World Baseball Classic, where Japan was eliminated in the quarterfinals. He did not pitch in the tournament but threw bullpen sessions. The Dodgers are managing his buildup ahead of the season, with plans for him to pitch in a preseason game before his regular-season debut.
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Common question
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The Los Angeles Dodgers are an American professional baseball team based in Los Angeles, California. The Dodgers compete in Major League Baseball as a member club of the National League West division.
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Shohei Ohtani, nicknamed "Sho Time", is a Japanese professional baseball pitcher and designated hitter for the Los Angeles Angels of Major League Baseball.