Los Angeles Dodgers superstar Shohei Ohtani received encouraging news heading into the offseason, as the two way sensation is not expected to need surgery and is projected to return to the mound during the 2027 MLB season.
Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman confirmed Wednesday that surgery is not being considered for Ohtani’s left knee and right biceps injuries. After a frustrating end to the season, the organization expects the four-time MVP to recover with rest and be ready for the start of spring training.
The announcement provides a major boost for Los Angeles as the team begins planning for next season and looks to get its biggest star back to full strength.
Ohtani Expected to Return to Two Way Role
Ohtani’s 2026 campaign was disrupted by injuries that eventually forced him to stop pitching. His last appearance on the mound came July 3, and repeated attempts to return were unsuccessful as he continued dealing with discomfort.
Despite the setbacks, Ohtani remained one of baseball’s most dangerous hitters for much of the season. He finished with 30 home runs and an .889 OPS, while also posting an impressive 1.79 ERA across 14 starts and 85⅔ innings.
Those numbers demonstrate just how valuable Ohtani can be when he contributes both offensively and on the mound. His ability to serve as an elite hitter and starting pitcher makes him one of the most unique players in baseball history.
Friedman made it clear that the Dodgers are excited about getting Ohtani back to pitching, although the organization still needs to determine how to manage his workload.
Dodgers Must Protect Their Superstar
The biggest challenge heading into 2027 will be keeping Ohtani healthy throughout a full season. The Dodgers want him contributing as both a hitter and pitcher without allowing the demands of his workload to affect his availability late in the year.
One possibility is to ease Ohtani back into pitching rather than immediately giving him a full workload at the beginning of the season. The team has not finalized a plan, and discussions will continue throughout the offseason.
Ohtani has also expressed his desire to return to his two-way role after missing the final months of the season as a pitcher.
A Major Boost for Los Angeles
Avoiding surgery gives Ohtani a clearer path toward recovery and gives the Dodgers reason to be optimistic about 2027.
After an injury filled season and an early postseason exit, Los Angeles will be looking for a bounce-back campaign. Having Ohtani healthy and pitching again could make a significant difference as the Dodgers pursue another championship.
While his exact workload remains uncertain, the expectation is clear: Ohtani is preparing to return to the mound next season.