"It's still in there" — Clayton Kershaw heaps huge praise on Shohei Ohtani’s pitching prowess despite major elbow surgery rehab

Los Angeles Dodgers star pitcher Clayton Kershaw has shown great respect for Shohei Ohtani's sensational comeback from elbow surgery and emergence as an excellent two-way player. Kershaw's remarks emphasize Ohtani's exceptional talent that has inspired his peers despite returning from injury.

During the Dodgers game against the Astros, he remarked on Ohtani’s pitching ability and impressive dedication to hitting, saying:

"I have watched him throw his rehab, and he is on a slower timeline. He is not gonna pitch this year or anything, but it is still in there. He got some life when he throws, man, it comes out good."

Shohei Ohtani is undergoing a slower recovery than others who are expected back this season, with no pitching scheduled until next year. This comment highlights Ohtani's persistent skill and what lies ahead in future seasons, as he's expected to continue as one of the few dual-threat players in the game.

"I am having a fun time watching him pit this year thought, It has been really fun watching him put all his energy into hitting and he is pretty good at it," said Clayton Kershaw

While Ohtani isn’t available to pitch right now, his offensive numbers have been amazing. Ohtani's commitment to hitting has impressed experienced pitchers such as Kershaw. The praise from an experienced pitcher confirms the impact that Ohtani had made while off duty from throwing.

"For me, it's just the sound. Some of the best hitters, it's just the sound. It's just different, and he definitely falls into that category," said Clayton Kershaw.

Kershaw is interested in more than just numbers when discussing his admiration for Ohtani’s work ethic because of what makes him special.

As Ohtani progresses through rehab, fans eagerly await his return to the mound. The praise and observations from revered players like Kershaw only intensify anticipation of seeing him pitch again.

Shohei Ohtani throwing from 60 feet, eyeing return to mound in 2025

Ohtani, the Dodgers' two-way superstar, continues to dominate as a hitter while rehabbing from his second Tommy John surgery. Although Ohtani won’t pitch this season, he has made significant progress. Recently, Ohtani updated the media, revealing he has been throwing from 60 feet, reaching speeds of 80 mph.

“Usually anywhere from 60-70, Just continuing to increase the distance and the pitches, and just seeing where that goes. I’m not quite sure how far I’m gonna go out there, but that’s the progression,” [H/T mlb.com]

Ohtani's rehab began after returning from Seoul in late March. He mentioned his routine involves 60-70 throws, gradually increasing distance and pitch intensity. Despite his progress, the Dodgers and Ohtani aim for a return to the mound in 2025, even if the team reaches the postseason.