In order to treat a labrum injury in his left shoulder, Shohei Ohtani had arthroscopic surgery on Tuesday. Ohtani suffered this injury while trying to steal second base in Game 2 of the World Series on October 26. He dislocated his nonthrowing shoulder. He played through the discomfort despite the injury, and the Los Angeles Dodgers defeated the New York Yankees in five games to win the World Series.

Ohtani is expected to be ready to go back to spring training in February, according to the Dodgers. Despite his poor offensive performance in the World Series—he went only one for eleven at the plate and walked—his presence and leadership were crucial to the Dodgers’ victory. Ohtani was important in the team’s push for the championship; even though he didn’t contribute much at the plate, his presence in the lineup inspired his teammates.

Ohtani Shohei (MLB)

During the regular season, Ohtani’s performance was very remarkable. He solidified his status as one of the game’s most dynamic players by becoming the first player in Major League Baseball history to hit 50 home runs and steal 50 bases in a single season. He signed a 10-year, $700 million contract with the Dodgers as a result of his accomplishments, demonstrating his worth to the franchise on and off the field.

Ohtani’s future as a pitcher has come under scrutiny due to the shoulder surgery. In the previous offseason, he had surgery on his throwing elbow, which prevented him from pitching in 2024. It’s unclear how the shoulder surgery would affect his pitching future, even though he is anticipated to return as a hitter. When he is ready to pitch again in 2025, the Dodgers will keep a careful eye on his recuperation to see if he can return to his two-way job.

Due to their involvement in the Tokyo Series against the Chicago Cubs in mid-March, the Dodgers are slated to start spring training in early February, a few days ahead of other clubs. Ohtani will have a little more time to recuperate before the regular season starts, thanks to this. In 2024, the team hopes he will be fully recovered and prepared to help them defend their World Series crown.