Shohei Ohtani Shows Serious Pitching as He Aims to Dominate Batters This Season

A strikeout-type power pitcher is gradually adding the finesse of getting outs by letting batters hit. On March 26 (Japan time), Shohei Ohtani (31) opened his ninth MLB season, and his pitching in the Cactus League hinted at exactly that evolution.

On March 19, Ohtani started against the Giants in an exhibition game, throwing five innings, allowing only one hit, recording four strikeouts, and giving up no runs. Despite concerns that his pitching might be underprepared due to the WBC, Ohtani himself said he felt “natural” on the mound and was satisfied with his performance.

Baseball analyst Ryota Igarashi noted, “Ohtani’s pitching form has begun to show real individuality this season.”

“I’ve noticed he’s placing more weight on his right leg and lowering his right shoulder before release. His unique form is becoming recognizable—something fans can imitate and say, ‘That’s Ohtani pitching.’ The shape feels comfortable to him, and it highlights characteristics only he possesses. This is a sign that he is approaching true completion as a pitcher.”

It’s been three years since Ohtani last spent an offseason without rehab and began the season in the starting rotation. Considering his smooth preparation, fans can hope for a personal-best 16 wins, an ERA in the 1-point range, and even a potential Cy Young Award.

“For a two-way player like Ohtani, the biggest challenge is innings pitched. Cy Young voters consider not only ERA and strikeout rates but also how many innings a pitcher has completed. Last season, NL Cy Young winner Paul Sewald (23) of the Pirates and AL winner Tarik Skubal (29) of the Tigers both pitched over 180 innings,” explained a reporter covering MLB.

Ohtani’s career high is 166 innings in 2022. To earn baseball’s top pitching honor, he must exceed that total while maintaining peak performance.

To meet this challenge, Ohtani has expanded his pitching repertoire since the second half of last season.

“Early in games, he shows more splitters, then leans on sweepers later. In between, he mixes in sharp curveballs, high four-seamers, and sinkers, adjusting to each batter. Previously, he relied on overpowering pitches to rack up strikeouts. Now, improved control lets him induce ground balls and get outs when he wants. This season should allow fans to witness Ohtani’s true pitching power,” Igarashi added.

As demonstrated by his WBC performance, his batting preparation is also on track. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts (53) has already confirmed Ohtani will be used as a two-way player on April 1 against the Guardians. With Ohtani now approaching the ultimate form as a pitcher, his legendary season is officially underway.