Two-way Los Angeles Angels start Since being told on Aug. 23 that he had a torn UCL and would not be able to pitch the rest of the season, Shohei Ohtani has been making hints about the need for a potential elbow surgery. Whether or not Ohtani required Tommy John surgery was the only aspect of the entire case that lacked clarity.

The procedure to repair the UCL is frequently referred to as a “Tommy John” tear. Ohtani had Tommy John surgery in 2018 and did not become a full-time pitcher again until 2021, which was his first MVP season; he is currently in line to win his second.

Soon after it was revealed that Ohtani would miss the rest of the 2023 season as a hitter due to an oblique injury, he underwent surgery on Tuesday. Dr. Neal ElAttrache also clarified in the statement that Ohtani did not require a total restoration of the ligament.

ElAttrache stated in a statement sent by agent Nez Balelo that “the ultimate plan, after discussion with Shohei, was to repair the issue at hand and to reinforce the healthy ligament in place while adding viable tissue for the longevity of the elbow.” “I anticipate full recovery, and he’ll be ready to hit without any limitations come opening day of 2024 and do both (hit & pitch) in 2025,” the author said.

Ohtani avoiding a second Tommy John surgery would undoubtedly be a major accomplishment because there is very little precedent of players recovering from a second reconstruction. Walker Buehler, the L.A. Dodgers’ ace, has just been told he will miss the rest of 2023 while he recovers from his second TJ surgery. If this claim suggests Ohtani avoided Tommy John, experts are divided.

Whatever the case, Ohtani won’t start in 2024 and will return to his two-way form for the start of the 2025 season, according to ElAttrache. As Ohtani hits free agency this offseason, teams were eager for an update of this kind.

According to Ohtani’s surgeon, signing him would result in the team receiving a top-tier designated hitter in 2024 and possibly a two-way player with the chance to win the MVP award the following year. How this information will impact Ohtani’s market is yet to be seen. He was rumored to be in line for a $500 million contract at one point.

Phil Nevin: Ohtani’s comeback would mean the world.

Angles’ manager Phil Nevin discussed the upcoming free agency of Ohtani and whether or not a return to the Angels is still possible. Although Nevin lacked details, he claimed that Ohtani’s comeback would be enormously significant. He added that he is aware that all 30 Major League teams want to hire the famous two-way player.