Ohtani ramps up pitching
Shohei Ohtani completed a four-inning simulated game as part of his return-to-mound buildup for the Dodgers — a notable step after bullpen sessions this spring []. He's also set to lead Samurai Japan into a WBC quarterfinal against Venezuela, with Japan relying on his leadership for the young staff [].
Andrew Friedman said) the Dodgers had “great” conversations with Samurai Japan and agreed to keep open lines of communication about Shohei Ohtani’s workload ahead of the WBC. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said) Ohtani will not pitch for Team Japan in the tournament and will serve as a designated hitter while the club manages his mound program. MLB.com listed) the quarterfinal as Venezuela vs. Japan at loanDepot Park in Miami on March 14 at 9:00 p.m. ET, with Ranger Suárez and Yoshinobu Yamamoto named the probable starters. MLB.com reported) that Japan’s run in the Classic could keep Ohtani in Miami through at least March 17, limiting his pre‑season throwing windows and leaving the March 22–24 Freeway Series as his likeliest tune‑up before Opening Day.
