The time has finally come for Los Angeles Dodgers fans to see the 2024 unanimous MVP Shohei Ohtani make his 2025 spring debut for the team.
Dodgers manager revealed the three-time MVP will make his Spring Training debut against the Los Angeles Angels on Friday night. He will be the team’s designated hitter. Ohtani had to get left shoulder surgery this offseason due to a torn labrum he suffered in the World Series, and many are curious to see how he bounces back following his rehab, while also rehabbing his elbow following Tommy John Surgery about a year and a half ago.
The 30-year-old in the prime of his career became the first player in MLB history to hit 50 home runs and steal 50 bases in a season, doing so exclusively as the Dodgers DH in 2024.
Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter Shohei Ohtani (17).
Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
Some good news for Dodgers fans is that Ohtani will likely be ready to suit up for the team’s opening Tokyo Series in just about three weeks, bearing a major setback. He is still a couple of months away from seeing live game action on the mound.
The Dodgers’ Friday night game will take place at Camelback Ranch in Glendale, Arizona, where Ohtani will be met with an arousing ovation for his heroic 2024 season.
He also isn’t the only Dodger starter to see his first game action this week. Freddie Freeman is expected to DH for the team in their Thursday game, and catcher Will Smith will suit up for the first time Friday night as well.
