Shohei Ohtani's Game Today: June 17, 2025 – A Historic Return to the Mound
Shohei Ohtani's much-anticipated return to pitching took place on June 16, 2025, when he started for the Los Angeles Dodgers against the San Diego Padres. This marked his first pitching appearance since undergoing his second Tommy John surgery in 2023. Despite a brief outing, Ohtani's performance was a significant milestone in his recovery and showcased his enduring talent.
Game Summary: Ohtani's Return to the Mound
In the Dodgers' 6-3 victory over the Padres, Ohtani pitched one inning, allowing one run on two hits over 28 pitches. He recorded one strikeout and walked none. His fastball reached 100.2 mph, the second-fastest pitch thrown by a Dodgers pitcher this season . Ohtani's performance was a testament to his resilience and skill, even after a prolonged absence from pitching.
Performance Breakdown
| Category | Statistic |
|---|---|
| Innings Pitched | 1 |
| Runs Allowed | 1 |
| Hits Allowed | 2 |
| Strikeouts | 1 |
| Walks | 0 |
| Fastball Speed | 100.2 mph |
| Result | Win (6-3) |
Batting Performance: Consistent Excellence
While Ohtani's pitching debut was a focal point, his batting performance this season has been consistently impressive. As of June 17, 2025, he boasts a .307 batting average with 13 home runs and 22 RBIs. His on-base percentage stands at .411, and his slugging percentage is .644, leading to an OPS of 1.056 .
Return to Form: A Two-Way Threat
Ohtani's return to pitching adds another dimension to his already formidable skill set. Manager Dave Roberts expressed confidence in Ohtani's abilities, noting that his fastball had "life" and his "sweeper was really good" during recent simulated games . This dual-threat capability makes Ohtani a unique asset in Major League Baseball.
All-Star Consideration
Ohtani's performance has not gone unnoticed by fans and analysts alike. He currently leads the American League in All-Star voting, reflecting his popularity and the high expectations surrounding his return to pitching .
Conclusion: A Milestone in Ohtani's Career
Shohei Ohtani's return to the mound is a testament to his dedication, skill, and resilience. While his pitching debut was brief, it marks the beginning of what fans hope will be a successful return to two-way excellence. With his continued performance at the plate and on the mound, Ohtani remains one of baseball's most exciting and versatile players.
