Shohei Ohtani’s long-anticipated return to the mound sparked a fan frenzy at Dodger Stadium Monday night, as more than 53,000 fans braved Los Angeles traffic and early summer heat to witness his first pitching appearance in over a year and his first ever in Dodger blue.
From the moment the gates opened, the buzz was unmistakable. Fans donning Ohtani’s No. 17 jersey flooded the concourses, many with cameras locked on the two-way superstar as he warmed up in the bullpen. Some even arrived in themed outfits, adding to the carnival-like atmosphere around the ballpark.
Ohtani, who hadn’t pitched since suffering an elbow injury during the 2023 season, made his long-awaited return in front of a packed house as the Dodgers hosted the San Diego Padres. Taking the mound just after 7 p.m., the Japanese phenom hit triple digits on the radar gun but showed some expected rust in his brief outing, surrendering two hits and a run over 28 pitches in a single inning of work.
Despite the short stint on the mound, Ohtani made his impact felt at the plate. The reigning American League MVP went 2-for-4 with a pair of RBIs, helping propel the Dodgers to a 6-3 victory.
After the game, Ohtani kept it simple but powerful on Instagram, posting photos from his return alongside a brief caption: “I’m back.”
Though his pitching debut was limited, the energy in Chavez Ravine made one thing clear: Ohtani’s presence is as electric as ever. And if Monday night is any indication, Dodgers fans are more than ready for the full Shohei experience.