Shohei Ohtani pitched the rehab one step further to simulate the inter-game break

Shohei Ohtani joined a simulated break for the first time today during his bullpen practice before the away game against the Rattlesnakes, marking a new step in his pitching rehabilitation.

Except for the first simulated break, the amount of training this time was basically the same as the cowshed course after returning from paternity leave three weeks ago. Coach Dave Roberts revealed that Ohtani pitched about 35 balls, all of which were four-seam speedballs, two-seam speedballs and knuckle balls.

The team has not announced its next steps, including when to use the full game or face a real fighter, but the inclusion of a simulated break will be crucial. "It's a test of how well he's recovered after a break of about five to seven minutes," Roberts explained.

Ohtani's pitcher's comeback timeline is still inconclusive. After undergoing ulnar collateral ligament repair surgery on his right elbow in 2023 (the second major elbow surgery of his career), he will be at least a few months away from making a major league start. Labral surgery on his left shoulder last November also affected his offseason pitching preparations.

The Dodgers plan to gradually increase the intensity through a simulation game once Ohtani adds a variety of balls to the cowpen to ensure that he can play as a designated striker every night. With Blake Snell and Tyler Glasnow sidelined with shoulder injuries, the Dodgers are not yet fully represented. Clayton Kershaw will make his final rehab start for the triple-A Oklahoma City team on Sunday before returning to the team.

Despite the desperate need for a pitcher, the Dodgers continued to prudently advance Ohtani's recovery to ensure the second-in-class superstar returns in the best possible shape for a crucial battle. "I try to keep the expectation to rest, because we're obviously moving forward systematically," Roberts admits, "but seeing his talent for pitching, you can't help but imagine immediate action." Patience is crucial, though. "