(RightIsRight.co) – Raising concerns about the team’s upcoming season, $700 million worth of Los Angeles Dodgers superstar Shohei Ohtani has undergone shoulder surgery.
See the Dodgers’ tweet below.
Known for his dual-threat capabilities as both a pitcher and hitter, the Japanese phenomenon sustained the injury during a crucial World Series moment.
Ohtani, who signed a record-breaking 10-year contract with the Dodgers last year, suffered a torn labrum in his left shoulder during Game 2 of the World Series.
The injury occurred as he attempted to steal second base, a risky move that may now cost the team dearly.
Dr. Neal ElAttrache performed the arthroscopic surgery in Los Angeles, with the Dodgers optimistically stating that Ohtani is expected to be ready for Spring Training.
However, this marks the second consecutive offseason that Ohtani has undergone surgery.
Last year, he had surgery for a torn UCL in his pitching arm, raising questions about his durability and the Dodgers’ judgment in committing such a large sum to an injury-prone player.
While Ohtani’s regular-season performance was undeniably impressive, as he became the first player with at least 50 home runs and 50 stolen bases in a single season, his postseason contributions were limited by injury.
“I’m honored to be able to be part of a season where we played the longest, and to be able to get to know this team. My first year and experience winning a World Series has been a tremendous honor,” Ohtani said.
Despite Ohtani’s gracious words, his injuries have cast a shadow over the Dodgers’ victory.
The team’s reliance on a single player, no matter how talented, exposes the risks of putting all their eggs in one basket.
The Dodgers’ decision to start Spring Training earlier than most teams due to their participation in the Tokyo Series against the Chicago Cubs in March now seems particularly ill-advised.
Moreover, there is significant uncertainty about how this surgery will impact Ohtani’s return as a pitcher in 2025.
With back-to-back surgeries on different parts of his body, it is reasonable to question whether he can maintain the two-way playing style that justified his enormous contract.
Shohei Ohtani today underwent successful arthroscopic surgery, performed in Los Angeles by Dr. Neal ElAttrache, to repair a labrum tear that resulted from a left shoulder dislocation Oct. 26. He is expected to be ready for Spring Training.
— Los Angeles Dodgers (@Dodgers) November 5, 2024
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