Ohtani, 31, returned to the mound last June after a 22‑month absence, pitching 47 innings with a 2.87 ERA, 100‑mph velocity, 62 strikeouts and nine walks. He has fully recovered from two Tommy John surgeries and a shoulder operation, and his control and power are back at their peak.
Ohtani said he wants to stay healthy all year and that a Cy Young award would be a sign of success, while Dodgers manager Dave Roberts praised his discipline and expected him to exceed expectations.