It's possible Ohtani throws a bullpen session or faces batters in a simulated game at some point in September, but not a guarantee. While Ohtani recently acknowledged it's possible his rehab process has been aided by only hitting this year.
Dodgers president of baseball operations Andrew Friedman did not rule out Ohtani playing outfield this year but admitted it's an unlikely scenario: 'I don't think so. Obviously, the right arm is so important, and in October or in late September, in a pennant race, I don't think so.'
Considering the long-term contract the Dodgers signed Ohtani to, there's little to nothing for them to gain with the two-way star going into the outfield this year. A rash of injuries impacted the Dodgers' rotation this season, changing outlook for next year and making Ohtani's ability to return to pitching in 2025 imperative.
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