Ohtani’s Comeback: Dodgers Rely on His Dual Threat Against Padres
LOS ANGELES, CA – Shohei Ohtani, a key player for the Los Angeles Dodgers, is set to make his return to the mound on Monday for the first time since August 2023. His comeback is significant not only for the team but also for daily Fantasy baseball enthusiasts.
Ohtani has been absent from pitching for nearly 22 months, previously showcasing his prowess with a commendable 3.14 ERA over 23 starts in the 2023 season. As one of the premier hitters in Major League Baseball (MLB), his presence in the lineup exacerbates the stakes for the Dodgers, who are not in a position to send him to the minor leagues for rehab. Anticipation builds as he gears up for a limited appearance against the San Diego Padres, likely throwing only one or two innings as part of a "pseudo-rehab" outing.
Impact on Daily Fantasy Sports
Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) players will need to navigate Ohtani’s limited pitching role cautiously. While he is not included in the DFS player pool for pitching on platforms like FanDuel and DraftKings, his batting capabilities remain a focal point for lineup composition. As the Dodgers face the Padres, players like Manny Machado, Fernando Tatis Jr., and Xander Bogaerts may garner increased attention due to Ohtani’s circumstances.
According to DFS expert Mike McClure, who has garnered over $2 million in winnings, Ohtani’s return reshapes the dynamics of the game. “He has the potential to impact how DFS lineups are structured for Monday’s games,” McClure notes.
Player Highlights and Key Recommendations
Beyond Ohtani, McClure has emphasized several players to watch for strong returns. One standout recommendation is Houston Astros shortstop Jeremy Pena, priced at $4,500 on DraftKings and $3,200 on FanDuel. Pena has scored in six consecutive games, exhibiting consistent performance, even amidst a recent hitless streak. His impressive .325 batting average ranks him fourth in the league, while his success against left-handed pitchers bodes well for the upcoming match.
“Pena’s experience against the Athletics’ JP Sears makes him a crucial asset for DFS players,” McClure highlights.
Another player making waves is New York Yankees outfielder Trent Grisham, also suggested by McClure. Grisham, priced similarly to Pena, has managed to reach base safely in six of his last seven games, reflecting a steady upward trend in his performance. With an average of .244, his drastic improvements over previous seasons warrant attention, particularly against right-handed pitchers like Jose Soriano.
Conclusion: A Pivotal Moment for the Dodgers
Ohtani’s comeback presents a unique scenario, rife with both opportunities and challenges for players and analysts alike. While his pitching capabilities may be limited initially, the event signifies his critical role within the Dodgers’ lineup. As the 2025 MLB season progresses, the impact of Ohtani’s return on the Dodgers and the Fantasy baseball community will be paramount.
The matchup against the Padres is not just about baseball; it reflects the intersection of sports performance and the evolving dynamics of daily Fantasy gaming. For fans and players, keeping an eye on Ohtani, along with McClure’s strategic insights, could shape the outcomes of their DFS lineups. As the season unfolds, his impact on the field and fantasy rosters will be closely watched.
