The Los Angeles Dodgers, accustomed to boasting one of baseball’s most formidable lineups, have faced an unusually challenging spring training. A series of injuries have sidelined several key players, creating early concerns about the team’s readiness. Notably, questions surrounding the health of both Freddie Freeman and Shohei Ohtani have added to the preseason anxieties. However, as spring training progresses, encouraging developments have emerged, providing a sense of optimism for the Dodgers’ upcoming season.
Freeman, Shohei Ohtani Making Good Progress To Return To Los Angeles Dodgers Lineup
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts provided reporters with encouraging news on Wednesday, as relayed by the Los Angeles Times’ Jack Harris. The Times reported that Freddie Freeman is set to make his Cactus League debut on Thursday against the Colorado Rockies. This development is particularly noteworthy, given Freeman’s recovery from ankle surgery performed in December.
Ohtani’s recovery from shoulder surgery is progressing positively, with him scheduled to make his first appearance on the field this Friday. As part of his rehabilitation, Ohtani engaged in live pitching practice on Sunday, building upon his progress after completing his third bullpen session just one day prior. Earlier this month, Roberts said they did not expect Ohtani to return to the mound until sometime in May.
Adding to the positive news, catcher Will Smith is also slated to make his spring training debut on Friday, having recovered from a preseason ankle issue. Despite the Dodgers’ challenges with injuries during spring training, the return of these key players is sure to inject renewed energy into the Camelback Ranch camp. With these highly anticipated debuts imminent, the Dodgers are eager to move past their injury concerns and begin building momentum as they progress through spring training.