Shohei Ohtani is returning to the mound on Monday against the Padres. After months of speculation, subtle updates, and cautious optimism, the Japanese ace is set to unleash his firepower on the mound once again,

The Los Angeles Dodgers sparked a frenzy Sunday evening announcing two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani will make his long-awaited first start from the mound in Dodger blue on Monday night.

Shohei Ohtani is returning to the mound. Ohtani will pitch on Monday, serving as the Dodgers starter against the Padres for his first pitching appearance since 2023. Ohtani, who had elbow surgery nearly two years ago, will pitch as an opener, per manager Dave Roberts. He recently threw 44 pitches in a simulated game.