Shohei Ohtani’s ability to dominate as both a pitcher and hitter makes him one of baseball’s most unusual talents. However, his 2026 season demonstrated the physical demands of maintaining both roles. The Los Angeles Dodgers now face a difficult challenge: protecting Ohtani’s pitching recovery while preserving the power hitting that makes him an essential part of their lineup.
When Two-Way Excellence Meets Physical Limits
Ohtani began the 2026 campaign with impressive performances on both sides of the game. His pitching numbers reached an 8-2 record and a 1.79 ERA across 14 starts. At the plate, he remained a major offensive threat, recording 30 home runs during the regular season.
However, left knee inflammation and right biceps discomfort disrupted his progress. His final pitching appearance came on July 3. Although the Dodgers explored a return to the mound, recurring discomfort eventually ended his pitching campaign. In September, Ohtani confirmed that he would focus exclusively on hitting for the remainder of the season.
According to MLB’s injury timeline, his throwing progression also coincided with a significant decline in offensive production during the final weeks of the regular season. This raised questions about how the organization should coordinate his pitching preparation and batting responsibilities.
The Recovery Strategy Behind His Return
The Dodgers have previously experimented with separating Ohtani’s responsibilities. On certain pitching days, he has rested from designated-hitter duties. The team has also provided recovery days after demanding appearances.
In April 2026, MLB reported that manager Dave Roberts and the organization were carefully evaluating how much work Ohtani could sustain. The challenge involves more than pitch counts. Throwing sessions, batting practice, base running, travel, and recovery all contribute to the overall physical demand.
His knee and biceps problems ultimately required offseason rest rather than surgery. The Associated Press report published by CBS News confirmed that the Dodgers expected to discuss a revised workload strategy with Ohtani.
What the Dodgers Are Considering for 2027
Ohtani has clearly expressed his intention to pitch again in 2027. Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman has also indicated that the organization expects him to return to two-way duties. However, the exact schedule remains undecided.
MLB’s October report noted that the Dodgers may consider a gradual return rather than immediately placing him into a full starting rotation. His previous elbow surgeries also make careful pitching progression an important consideration.
Another MLB update on his offseason health confirmed that surgery was not required for the knee and biceps injuries. Nevertheless, the team still needs to determine how to balance his two responsibilities throughout a full season.
Protecting a Rare Baseball Talent
Ohtani’s value comes from his ability to change games with both his bat and his arm. The Dodgers must therefore consider long-term availability rather than simply maximizing his appearances.
As the 2027 season approaches, communication, recovery planning, and flexible scheduling will be central to his return. The objective is straightforward: keep Ohtani healthy enough to deliver elite performances at the plate and on the mound when the biggest games arrive.
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