Dodgers Rumors: Top Free Agent Target Shohei Ohtani Headed for Surgery to Repair Torn UCL

Shohei Ohtani will need some kind of procedure to repair his torn UCL but won't affect his ability to DH.

Shohei Ohtani will need some kind of procedure to repair his UCL in the offseason, but the injury shouldn’t affect his ability to be a DH. His agent Nez Balelo spoke to reports earlier this week to share the news on Ohtani.

It is likely Ohtani will need some kind of procedure done, but they are still weighing what needs to be done. “The ligament itself that Shohei has, the graft that he was shown, that he had repaired in 2018, is still intact,” Balelo clarified.

“Shohei is going to be somebody’s lineup next year, DHing when the bell rings,” Balelo said.

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In 2018, Ohtani underwent Tommy John surgery. He may need a second one, but Ohtani hopes he can have a less invasive procedure.

Being a free agent for the first time in his major league career, Ohtani is expected to be greatly sought-after. While his injury might decrease his value a little, the media still expects Ohtani will demand a record-setting contract.

At 29, Ohtani is a super DH. He has a .304 batting average, 44 home runs, 95 RBI, and a 1.066 OPS. He also has incredible speed.

While he hasn’t played in the outfield since 2021, he could be an outfielder.

The Dodgers are considered to be the top suitor for Ohtani. He will get his UCL injury taken care of soon, probably before the offseason begins.

Then, he will work hard to regain his pitching ability.

Since the Dodgers probably won’t re-sign J.D. Martinez, they will need a DH — and Ohtani will fit that need. When Ohtani can pitch again, he might be a top-notch reliever. He also might regain his ability to be an ace-level starter. This upcoming offseason will be interesting to see what happens with Ohtani's injury and how it affects his free agency.

Either way, expect the Dodgers to be interested.