In a stunning blow to the Los Angeles Angels, Shohei Ohtani, the team’s prized two-way player, recently underwent elbow surgery. Dr. Neal ElAttrache, the surgeon responsible for the procedure, grimly announced that Ohtani won’t be able to hit again until 2024 and won’t be able to pitch until 2025. The specifics of the surgery were conveniently withheld from the public, leaving fans and analysts in the dark.
According to ElAttrache, the plan was to repair the issue at hand and reinforce the healthy ligament in Ohtani’s elbow, while also adding viable tissue for the long-term durability of the joint. He optimistically stated that he expects Ohtani to have a full recovery and be ready to hit without any restrictions by the opening day of the 2024 season, with hopes of resuming both hitting and pitching by 2025.
Ohtani, on his Instagram account, shared the news of his surgery and expressed his disappointment at not being able to finish the season on the field. He assured his followers that he will be supporting his teammates from the sidelines. In a seemingly scripted message, he thanked everyone for their prayers and kind words, emphasizing the unfortunate circumstances that prevented him from continuing his stellar performance on the field.
His agent, Nez Balelo, echoed the sentiment that the decision to undergo surgery was a strategic move for Ohtani’s future. Balelo emphasized that the type of procedure was chosen with the intention of giving Ohtani the best chance to continue both hitting and pitching for many years to come. It’s worth noting that Ohtani is set to become a free agent later this year, so it’s in his best interest to make a strong comeback.
Before his injury, Ohtani was having an exceptional season, boasting a batting average of .304 with an impressive 1.066 OPS. He had hit 44 home runs and racked up 95 RBI in 135 games. On the pitching side, he held a respectable 3.14 ERA with 167 strikeouts and a 1.061 WHIP in 23 appearances. However, it’s important to mention that Ohtani hadn’t pitched since August 23, raising questions about the timing and severity of his injury.
This unfortunate turn of events has cast a shadow of uncertainty over Ohtani’s future and the Angels’ prospects. The team will have to rely on other players to fill the void left by their star player. Only time will tell if Ohtani can bounce back stronger than ever, as he optimistically claims. In the meantime, fans can only hope for the best and wonder what could have been.
