Los Angeles Angels star Shohei Ohtani had elbow surgery Tuesday, meaning he won’t be able to hit or pitch for a long time.
The Japanese confirmed with an Instagram post that his time under the knife went well. According to his agent, Nez Balelo, he will not be able to act as a pitcher in 2024, but could return to this position the following year.
So he could play as a designated hitter next season and should be ready for the spring opener.
“The ultimate plan, after deliberation with Shohei, was to repair the problem and strengthen the healthy ligament while adding viable tissue for the longevity of the elbow,” said Dr. Neal ElAttrache, who performed the operation.
Ohtani was injured during batting practice, dealing with an oblique strain, and has been out since September 4. He will have been forced to miss the last 25 games of 2023, and the Angels are not in a position to participate in the playoffs.
“It’s really unfortunate that I wasn’t able to finish the year on the field, but I will be cheering for the guys until the end,” Ohtani said. I will work as hard as possible to get back on the diamond stronger than ever.”
The 29-year-old could be the most popular free agent next off-season. Even though he won’t pitch, he remains one of the best hitters in major league baseball. He finished the campaign with a 3.04 batting average, hitting 151 hits, including 44 home runs, in 135 games.
On the mound, he maintained a 10-5 record and a 3.14 ERA.