Roberts ‘surprised’ by Ohtani’s pitching—was LA never confident in their $700M star?

The Los Angeles Dodgers have had an offseason unlike any other, and one of their greatest pitching additions for 2025 was already on the roster: Shohei Ohtani. Imagine this—an MVP who not only smashed over 50 home runs but also stole over 50 bases in the same season is now poised to elevate his game even further. If you think it can’t get better than that, think again!

Shohei Ohtani: A Baseball Folktale Unfolds

Ohtani’s journey to MLB stardom began in 2018 with the Los Angeles Angels, where he quickly became a household name. Picture a 1920s baseball folktale: a young phenom who can hit for power and pitch like a seasoned veteran. In his debut season, Ohtani was not just a home run hitter but also showcased his pitching prowess with a 3.31 ERA.

Fast forward to 2024, and Ohtani has signed a jaw-dropping 10-year, $700 million deal with the Dodgers. This blockbuster signing made headlines, but with a twist—Ohtani would focus solely on hitting in his first season with the Dodgers due to recovering from UCL surgery on his pitching elbow.

The Enigma of Ohtani’s Dual Threat

The rarity of Ohtani’s talent cannot be overstated. A player who can excel as both a hitter and a pitcher is a unicorn in modern baseball. The fact that he was sidelined from pitching while still becoming the first player to hit over 50 home runs and steal over 50 bases in the same season is mind-boggling. As a fan, one can’t help but wonder: what more does this two-way superstar have in store?

The Surprise Factor: Dave Roberts Weighs In

As Ohtani ramps up his return to the mound, Dodgers’ manager Dave Roberts has expressed his surprise at how quickly Ohtani has progressed in his recovery.

Roberts’ Take on Ohtani’s Recovery

Roberts stated, “Yes, given who the player is and who the person is, I’m surprised with how quick it’s gone. He just understands that we’ve got a long season to go, so he’s sort of bought into whatever we need from him. But seeing this is great.”

This statement underscores the combination of Ohtani’s talent and his work ethic. The fact that Roberts is surprised points to Ohtani’s dedication and focus, especially given the high stakes of the upcoming season.

The Long Journey Ahead

While Roberts is enthusiastic about Ohtani’s progress, he also reminds fans that a process is underway. The Dodgers are not rushing their prized asset back into action. With the long season ahead, Ohtani’s gradual return is essential for his health and effectiveness.

The Impending Return: What to Expect

As Ohtani prepares to return to pitching, fans are left wondering what kind of impact he will have. The numbers speak for themselves: a career 3.01 ERA and a 38-19 record since 2018, coupled with an impressive 608 strikeouts to just 173 walks. These stats are not just remarkable for a player who moonlights as a pitcher; they are impressive by any standard.

The Dodgers’ Edge

Ohtani’s return to the mound is not just a personal milestone; it’s a game-changer for the Dodgers. Adding a pitcher of his caliber to an already stacked roster will give the defending champions an edge that no other team in MLB can claim. Imagine opposing batters facing a pitcher who can also launch homers into the stratosphere. How can any team prepare for that?

MLB’s Unique Advantage

The prospect of Ohtani being both an elite pitcher and a formidable hitter puts the Dodgers in a unique position. Other teams may have standout pitchers or explosive hitters, but none can boast a player who can excel in both capacities. This dual-threat capability may redefine how teams strategize against the Dodgers.

The Controversy: Can Ohtani Sustain His Dual Roles?

While Ohtani’s talent is unquestionable, the debate surrounding his ability to sustain performance in both roles is ongoing. Can one player truly excel as both a top-tier pitcher and a power hitter?

The Player vs. Position Dilemma

Critics argue that attempting to maintain excellence in two such demanding roles could lead to burnout or injury. The pressures of being a two-way player are immense, and while Ohtani has managed thus far, the question remains: how long can he keep it up? The physical toll on an athlete’s body can be severe, especially when balancing the rigors of pitching and hitting.

The Fan Perspective

From a fan’s perspective, the excitement of watching Ohtani strut his stuff on the mound and at the plate is exhilarating. However, there’s an underlying anxiety. Every outing could lead to an injury, and every swing of the bat could be a risk. The stakes are higher when you have a player like Ohtani, and fans are left to grapple with the duality of love and concern.

Humor in the Hype

The Ohtani Effect

The media frenzy surrounding Shohei Ohtani is nothing short of amusing. Every time he steps onto the field, you can almost hear the collective gasp of fans and commentators alike. “Will he hit a home run or strike out the side?” becomes the million-dollar question.

Memes, Jokes, and Ohtani’s Legend

Social media is rife with jokes about Ohtani’s unique skill set. One popular meme features Ohtani standing in the batter’s box with the caption, “Why choose one sport when you can dominate both?” Another shows him on the mound and at the plate simultaneously, jokingly suggesting he could throw a pitch and hit a home run in one fluid motion. The humor surrounding Ohtani’s extraordinary talent adds a layer of fun to the narrative.

The Lighthearted Side of Pressure

Despite the serious nature of Ohtani’s journey, there’s a lightheartedness that fans appreciate. The jokes and memes serve as a release valve for the mounting pressure. They remind us that, at the end of the day, sports are about enjoyment, and Ohtani brings joy to millions.

Looking Ahead: What Does the Future Hold?

As spring training progresses and Ohtani gears up for his return, the excitement within the Dodgers’ camp is palpable. Fans are eagerly anticipating what this season will bring, and the potential for greatness looms large.

The Road to the World Series

With Ohtani back on the mound, the Dodgers are more than just contenders—they are a force to be reckoned with. The combination of his pitching prowess and offensive capabilities makes them a formidable opponent for any team in MLB. Can they make another run for the World Series?

The Legacy of Shohei Ohtani

Ultimately, Ohtani’s legacy is still being written. Each game he plays adds to his story, and each triumph or setback shapes how fans and historians will remember him. The 2025 season is poised to be a defining chapter, one that could further solidify his status as one of baseball’s all-time greats.

Conclusion: The Ohtani Phenomenon

In a world where sports often feel predictable, Shohei Ohtani remains a breath of fresh air. His ability to excel in both pitching and hitting defies logic and challenges the status quo. Manager Dave Roberts’ surprise at Ohtani’s quick recovery is a testament to the player’s talent and determination.

As the Dodgers prepare for the upcoming season, one thing is clear: they have a unique advantage that no other team can claim. With Ohtani at the helm, fans can expect moments of brilliance that will leave them on the edge of their seats.

So, as we look forward to another thrilling season of baseball, let’s celebrate the incredible journey of Shohei Ohtani—a player who is not just rewriting the rulebook but also redefining what it means to be a superstar in the world of sports. And who knows, maybe this season will finally answer the burning question: can one player truly do it all? Only time will tell!