Los Angeles Angels pitching phenom Shohei <a href="https://news.quantosei.com/2025/07/06/astros-at-dodgers-odds-picks-and-predictions/” title=”Winning Astros vs Dodgers Odds, Picks & Prediction”>ohtani took the mound for the Los Angeles Dodgers on Saturday, marking his 31st birthday with a measured return to pitching action. Facing the Houston Astros, the two-way superstar delivered two scoreless innings as he continues his carefully managed rehabilitation from elbow surgery. This outing represented ohtani’s fourth mound appearance of the 2025 season, providing valuable innings as he builds arm strength.
The highly anticipated start saw Ohtani demonstrate impressive command and control. He required just 31 pitches to navigate two frames, with a remarkable 21 pitches landing for strikes. His most dominant sequence came in the second inning when he struck out the side in order. Christian Walker, Victor Caratini, and Yanier Diaz all went down swinging against the formidable right-hander.
Ohtani’s Pitching Performance Analyzed
Despite his previous start featuring a career-high velocity, this outing showcased a more controlled approach. Ohtani topped out at 100.9 mph against Caratini, hitting triple digits just once. He allowed only a single hit, a leadoff base knock to Isaac Paredes in the first inning.
Ohtani quickly settled in after the hit, inducing a key double play from Cam Smith via a comebacker. Second baseman Tommy Edman efficiently turned the play. Jose Altuve then grounded out, concluding the first inning on just 10 pitches for Ohtani. His efficiency was a highlight, allowing him to conserve energy while still effectively retiring batters.
Manager’s Insights on the Return
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts expressed significant satisfaction with Ohtani’s progress on the mound. “Very impressed,” Roberts stated regarding the performance. He noted that Ohtani’s stuff continues to improve with each outing.
Roberts highlighted the enhanced command and feel Ohtani displayed for making crucial pitches. He specifically pointed to Ohtani’s ability to pitch effectively without needing maximum velocity on every pitch. This “controlled fastball, controlled stuff” approach is a positive sign in his recovery. Roberts added that discussions about increasing Ohtani’s workload in future starts would follow this successful two-inning effort.
Batting and Birthday Celebrations
While his focus on this day was pitching, Ohtani also contributed with the bat. Hitting in his usual leadoff spot, he went 1-for-4 with a walk in the game. His hit was a leadoff single in the ninth inning against Astros closer Josh Hader, keeping hope alive late in the contest.
Following Ohtani’s second inning of work, the Dodger Stadium organist, Dieter Ruehle, played a line of “Happy Birthday” as Ohtani walked off the field, a nod to the special occasion. The Dodgers grounds crew had also marked the dirt before the game with a birthday message, “HB Sho,” showing the organization’s appreciation for the global icon.
Ohtani, speaking through his interpreter, shared a humble perspective on turning 31. “I’m already at an age where I don’t celebrate birthdays like I used to do,” he commented. He expressed gratitude for the well wishes received from fans and the team. His primary focus, he explained, remains on being able to play baseball at the level he desires, spending his birthday like any other day centered around the sport.
Reflecting on Hitting Performance
Addressing his performance at the plate, Ohtani acknowledged areas for improvement. “I don’t feel too bad at the plate,” he said, while also recognizing pitches he feels he should be hitting but isn’t. He suggested the adjustment needed is slight, likely stemming from minor differences in his swing or cage work. Ohtani expressed hope that these minor tweaks will translate into better results on the field soon.
The Game Context: Astros Victory
Despite Ohtani’s strong start, the Los Angeles Dodgers ultimately fell to the Houston Astros with a final score of 6-4. The Astros offense found its stride after Ohtani exited the game. They broke through for four runs in the third inning against Dodgers reliever Justin Wrobleski, building a lead they would not relinquish.
This particular series came on the heels of a challenging stretch for the Dodgers, including a dominant performance by the Astros in the series opener. Houston had routed Los Angeles 18-1 the previous night, highlighted by multiple home runs from Jose Altuve and a record-setting loss for the Dodgers at Dodger Stadium. The Astros’ offense, featuring players like Yainer Diaz who homered in Saturday’s game, demonstrated their power throughout the weekend. Josh Hader secured the save for the Astros, marking his major league-leading 25th of the season.
Ohtani’s Journey Back to the Mound
Shohei Ohtani’s return to pitching in 2025 is a significant storyline for the Dodgers and Major League Baseball. He missed the entire 2024 season on the mound while recovering from elbow surgery. This came after a spectacular five-season run with the Los Angeles Angels, where he compiled a pitching record of 38-19 with a 3.01 ERA over 86 starts.
The specific elbow procedure followed an injury suffered during the 2024 season. Notably, Ohtani sustained a minor left shoulder subluxation during Game 2 of the 2024 World Series against the New York Yankees while attempting to steal a base. While he remarkably played through the remainder of the series, the cumulative impact of injuries likely influenced his recovery timeline and the cautious approach to his 2025 pitching return.
The Dodgers organization, fresh off their triumphant 2024 World Series title (their eighth overall, and first full-season championship since 1988), is managing Ohtani’s transition back to a two-way role with extreme care. Ohtani was a part of that championship squad, even playing injured in the World Series where Freddie Freeman earned MVP honors and the Dodgers overcame significant challenges, including an epic comeback win in Game 5.
Before his 2024 injuries limited his two-way play, Ohtani had a dominant offensive season. He led the National League with 44 home runs and tied for the league lead with 98 RBIs, matching his 2023 home run total and nearing his career high of 46 set in 2021. His ability to perform at such high levels on both sides of the ball makes his controlled pitching return in 2025 a key development to watch. The team is looking for him to gradually build up his pitch count and innings as the season progresses.
Looking Ahead for the Superstar
Ohtani’s 2025 season is shaping up to be a pivotal year as he aims to reclaim his status as one of baseball’s premier two-way players. His early pitching outings have been encouraging, showing effectiveness even in limited innings. The focus remains squarely on his long-term health and successful return to a full pitching workload.
The Dodgers will continue to monitor his progress closely, adjusting his schedule based on performance and recovery metrics. Fans and analysts alike will be watching eagerly to see how the rest of the season unfolds for the dynamic player as he takes crucial steps back towards his full potential on the mound.
Frequently Asked Questions
How did Shohei Ohtani perform pitching on his 31st birthday?
On his 31st birthday, Shohei Ohtani made his fourth pitching appearance of the 2025 season for the Dodgers. He threw two scoreless innings against the Houston Astros. He allowed only one hit, threw 31 pitches (21 for strikes), and struck out three batters in the second inning.
What is the current status of Ohtani’s return to pitching after his injury?
Shohei Ohtani is in the process of returning to pitching in 2025 after missing the 2024 season on the mound due to elbow surgery. His current appearances are in an opener role, throwing limited innings as he builds strength. He also dealt with a shoulder injury during the 2024 World Series, which adds context to his careful rehabilitation plan this season.
What was the overall outcome and context of the game Ohtani pitched?
The game Ohtani pitched on his birthday resulted in a 6-4 loss for the Los Angeles Dodgers against the Houston Astros. Ohtani pitched the first two scoreless innings, but the Astros scored four runs in the third inning after Ohtani exited and went on to win. This game was part of a series where the Astros had previously defeated the Dodgers soundly.