TL;DR - Scouting Report
At DodgersFest 2025, the reigning World Series champions revealed key updates: Ohtani’s pitching timeline, Betts’ move to shortstop, Freeman’s recovery, and more as they aim for back-to-back titles.
Start the Rally: Tweet This Now!LOS ANGELES, CA — The Los Angeles Dodgers hosted their annual DodgersFest on Saturday, giving fans an exclusive look at the reigning World Series champions’ star-studded roster and their plans for the 2025 season. From Shohei Ohtani’s highly anticipated pitching timeline to Mookie Betts’ transition to shortstop, the event was packed with updates.
Ohtani’s Comeback Timeline
Two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani provided the most anticipated update of the day. While he confirmed he’s “on schedule” to return as the team’s designated hitter for Opening Day in Tokyo, his pitching debut remains uncertain. Manager Dave Roberts hinted at a possible May return to the mound, but Ohtani emphasized that his progress will depend on how his arm responds during spring training. “The offseason felt short, and obviously with the surgery, it was even shorter,” Ohtani said through interpreter Will Ireton. “But I’m looking forward to being ready.”
Betts’ Bold Move to Shortstop
The Dodgers are doubling down on Mookie Betts as their Opening Day shortstop. Betts, who spent the offseason working with new first-base coach Chris Woodward, feels confident in his progress. “I feel like a completely new person out there,” Betts said. Roberts echoed the sentiment, stating he’s “much more comfortable” with Betts’ defensive abilities than he was last spring. The move allows the Dodgers to maximize their lineup flexibility, with Hyeseong Kim and Miguel Rojas providing backup options.
Freeman’s Recovery on Track
First baseman Freddie Freeman, the 2024 World Series MVP, revealed he underwent surgery in December to address lingering ankle issues. While he’s already swinging a bat, Freeman hasn’t been cleared to run or move laterally. “It was quite a nasty injury,” Freeman admitted, but he remains confident he’ll be 100% for Opening Day.
Kershaw’s Return and Hernández’s Future
Veteran ace Clayton Kershaw, recovering from toe and knee surgeries, is expected to re-sign with the Dodgers for his 18th season. While his return to the mound may come mid-season, Kershaw’s presence remains a cornerstone of the team’s identity. Meanwhile, fan-favorite Kiké Hernández remains unsigned, but General Manager Brandon Gomes left the door open for a reunion. “We’ll never close the door to Kiké,” Gomes said.
Roster Depth and Injury Updates
The Dodgers’ depth was a recurring theme at DodgersFest. Miguel Rojas is nearly 100% recovered from hernia surgery, while Emmet Sheehan (Tommy John surgery) and Tony Gonsolin are ahead of schedule in their rehabs. With Roki Sasaki and Blake Snell joining the rotation, the Dodgers’ pitching staff looks stronger than ever.
Aiming for Back-to-Back Titles
No team has repeated as World Series champions in 25 years, but the Dodgers are determined to break the streak. “We want to win,” Betts said. “If other teams or fan bases want to get upset, they know what to do: Follow what the Dodgers are doing.”
With a $500 million offseason spending spree and a roster brimming with talent, the Dodgers are poised for another historic run. As DodgersFest 2025 made clear, the road to repeating starts now.
