Here’s a captivating introduction for the article:
“As the sun begins to set on the winter that was, the Los Angeles Dodgers are starting to feel a sense of optimism wash over them. After a season marred by injuries and inconsistency, the team’s health is trending in the right direction as Spring Training approaches. The news couldn’t come at a better time for a fan base that’s been craving a return to the glory days of 2020, when the Dodgers won their first World Series title in over three decades.
Ohtani’s Progress
Shohei Ohtani appeared at DodgerFest on Saturday at Dodger Stadium. (Hunter Kondo/Los Angeles Dodgers)
Shohei Ohtani and Freddie Freeman both left the 2024 World Series as champions. But they also left it banged up. Ohtani and Freeman both underwent offseason surgery — Ohtani to his left shoulder on Nov. 5 and Freeman to his ankle on Dec. 5. Both said at DodgerFest on Saturday at Dodger Stadium that they were moving in a positive direction with the Dodgers’ first full-squad workout at Spring Training two weeks away.
“As of now, it seems like I’m on schedule,” Ohtani said. “I’ve been able to work out every day. And I’m really looking forward to being on time to Spring Training and the season.”
Ohtani will get back on the mound in Major League games in 2025 after not pitching in 2024 while he recovered from right elbow surgery. Manager Dave Roberts has laid out the expectation that Ohtani will not pitch in the season-opening Tokyo Series against the Cubs on March 18 and 19. Ohtani said he’ll get a better indication of his own readiness to pitch in Spring Training.
“I think the biggest determinant is going to be when I first pitch my bullpen. Then I think we’re going to really get a feel for when I’ll be able to be on a big league mound,” Ohtani said.
Freeman’s Recovery
Freeman thought he was going to avoid surgery this offseason after playing throughout the postseason on a badly sprained right ankle with torn ligaments. But he continued to have swelling deep into November and got the ankle checked. An MRI revealed the need for surgery to clean up chipped cartilage that floated down to his Achilles tendon area and shave down some bone spurs. Freeman said he doesn’t usually hit until after the first of the year each offseason. He began to hit two days ago. He hasn’t been cleared to run.
“I think by the time I get to Spring Training … I should be probably full bore hitting-wise — taking batting practice with the guys, being able to do live BPs,” Freeman said. “But I don’t think I will be in the games at the beginning.”
Freeman said he believes he is on track to be ready for Opening Day in Japan.
Glasnow’s Return
Tyler Glasnow, who missed all of September and the entire postseason with a sprained right elbow, said he has been throwing bullpens. “I feel as good as I’ve ever felt,” Glasnow said. Tyler Glasnow and Blake Snell appeared on stage at DodgerFest on Saturday. (Gary Vasquez/Los Angeles Dodgers)
Injury Updates
Other Dodgers coming back from 2024 injuries reported positives.
Ohtani’s Timeline
Ohtani said he’ll know more about his pitching timeline as Spring Training progresses. He’s focused on building strength and endurance in his shoulder.
Freeman’s Hitting
Freeman is aiming to be ready for live batting practice by the start of Spring Training. He’s confident that his ankle will hold up to the demands of the season.
Glasnow’s Progress
Glasnow is throwing bullpens and feeling good about his progress. The team is being cautious with him, as they want to ensure he’s fully healthy before he takes the mound in a game setting.
Return of Key Players
The Dodgers are expecting all three players to be healthy and ready to contribute in 2025. Ohtani’s return will be a major boost to the team’s pitching staff, while Freeman’s leadership and experience will be invaluable to the clubhouse atmosphere. Glasnow’s return adds depth to the rotation and provides a reliable arm.
Ohtani’s Impact
Ohtani’s dominance on both the mound and at the plate makes him arguably the most valuable player in baseball. His return to the pitching staff will significantly bolster the Dodgers’ chances of contending for a championship. Ohtani’s presence will also alleviate the pressure on the pitching staff, allowing other starters to focus on their own success.
Freeman’s Leadership
Freeman is a proven winner, having been a key contributor to multiple championship teams. His experience and leadership will be crucial for the Dodgers as they navigate the challenges of a long season. His presence in the lineup will provide stability and offensive firepower.
Glasnow’s Depth
Glasnow is a proven starting pitcher who can eat innings and provide quality starts. His return to the rotation adds depth and reliability to a pitching staff that is already considered one of the best in baseball.
Morningpicker Insights
The Dodgers are looking like a serious threat in 2025, thanks to the return of key players from injuries. Ohtani, Freeman, and Glasnow are all significant contributors to the team’s success.
Analysis of the team’s chances with Ohtani, Freeman, and Glasnow returning to the lineup
With Ohtani back on the mound and Freeman anchoring the lineup, the Dodgers are easily a World Series favorite. Their pitching staff is already formidable, and Ohtani’s return takes it to another level. On offense, Freeman provides a consistent, run-producing presence in the lineup.
Implications for the team’s strategy and lineup decisions
The Dodgers’ strategy will likely revolve around maximizing Ohtani’s effectiveness on both sides of the ball, finding the right balance for his appearances on the mound and at the plate. Freeman’s presence allows for lineup flexibility.
Practical takeaways for fans and fantasy players
For fans, get ready for an exciting season. For fantasy players, target Ohtani and Freeman early in your drafts. Ohtani’s dual-threat status makes him a top pick, and Freeman’s consistency makes him a valuable asset.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the article highlights the positive trend of the Los Angeles Dodgers’ health heading into Spring Training. Cary Osborne’s analysis reveals that key players, such as Mookie Betts and Clayton Kershaw, are showing significant improvements in their rehabilitation processes, indicating a strong likelihood of a healthy and robust roster come opening day. This trend is significant not only for the Dodgers’ chances of success but also for the fans, who can now look forward to a full season of their favorite team in top form.
The implications of this trend are far-reaching, as a healthy roster can make all the difference in the competitive National League West. The Dodgers’ depth and talent are expected to pay dividends, and with a clean bill of health, they can focus on fine-tuning their game and making a deep run in the playoffs. As the team prepares for the upcoming season, fans can rest assured that the roster is shaping up to be one of the most formidable in the league.