As a reminder, Ohtani hasn't pitched since Aug. 23, 2023. He underwent surgery on his pitching elbow less than a month later. At the time, his surgeon said it was to "repair the issue at hand and to reinforce the healthy ligament in place while adding viable tissue for the longevity of the elbow."

With Freddie Freeman hurt and Mookie Betts slumping, all eyes are on Ohtani as usual: "Probably the best in the game."