Dodgers say Ohtani’s bullpen work signals progress toward pitching return

Shohei Ohtani threw his first bullpen session in 23 days on Friday, marking a step forward in his recovery from left-knee soreness and right-biceps discomfort. The Los Angeles Dodgers observed the 34-pitch effort, during which Ohtani mixed off-speed pitches, and front-office staff, including president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman, were present.

General manager Brandon Gomes said the team is “continuing to build up volume and intensity, and all of these things are positive,” and noted that Ohtani’s knee is “feeling good.” He added that the club will proceed cautiously, assessing how Ohtani feels each day before deciding on the next steps.

Manager Dave Roberts said if Ohtani shows up Saturday without added soreness, the plan would involve one or two more bullpen sessions, followed by live pitching against hitters and eventually a major-league game. Roberts indicated that clearing this stage would move the team “out of the woods” in terms of the pitcher’s health.

Ohtani has been participating in catch work and fielding drills throughout the week, and his last public comment, delivered through an interpreter, emphasized the importance of “making sure we’re taking the right steps” in his rehab.

The Dodgers also noted that catcher Will Smith is progressing in his own recovery after missing time with a neck injury, and his timeline for a live batting practice and possible rehab assignment is expected to be “sooner rather than later.”