Shohei Ohtani is finally doing what Los Angeles has been waiting for — his debut as a pitcher in a Dodgers uniform.
After more than a year of anticipation, the superstar two-way player is making his long-awaited pitching debut on Monday, June 16, against the San Diego Padres at Dodger Stadium – and fans from all over the world are losing their minds.
Ohtani debuts as a Dodgers pitcher.
For the past season, Ohtani has been a designated hitter while recovering from elbow surgery. But now, the Japanese phenom is bringing back his full game, the same one that made him a legend in Anaheim and landed him a $700 million signing in L.A. While he’s expected to pitch just an inning or two, the buzz is real.
Ohtani isn’t just a baseball player. He’s a cultural icon, especially for the global fan base he brings. And nowhere is that more evident than in Los Angeles. From spots in Little Tokyo to murals in the Arts District, this city has embraced him in a way few athletes ever experience.
How and where to watch Shohei Ohtani’s pitching debut?
The game between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the San Diego Padres is scheduled to start at 7:10 p.m. PT at Dodger Stadium.
It will air locally on Spectrum SportsNet LA for fans in the L.A. area, while national viewers can catch the action via MLB Extra Innings.
Prefer to stream? Services like fuboTV and DirecTV Stream offer free trial periods that include access to regional sports networks and MLB coverage—perfect for watching Ohtani’s return to the mound live, without cable.
His pitching debut tonight is more than a sports headline. It’s an L.A. moment. The timing is huge, too. The Dodgers are facing major rotation injuries and looking for a boost heading into the summer.
How the Dodgers plan to use Ohtani as a pitcher
This won’t be a full-length start. Think of it more like a teaser. Ohtani’s first game back on the mound will be limited, likely just the first inning or two. But even a brief appearance is a massive shift for the Dodgers, who now get to tap into the complete version of their MVP.
Even if you’re not familiar with Ohtani’s pitching and its potential impact on the Dodgers’ season, or if you’re just someone who enjoys memorable moments in Los Angeles, Shohei Ohtani’s return to pitching is shaping up to be a must-watch night in the city.