Just months after celebrating their 2024 World Series title, the Los Angeles Dodgers took the field at Camelback Ranch in Glendale, Arizona, for their first official Spring Training workout on Tuesday.
While many familiar faces were present, several high-profile newcomers also participated in the workout, signaling an exciting season ahead for the reigning champions.
Star-Studded Additions to the Dodgers Roster
The Dodgers made major offseason moves, adding several standout players to their already dominant lineup:
- Roki Sasaki – The Japanese pitching sensation joins fellow countrymen Shohei Ohtani and Yoshinobu Yamamoto.
- Blake Snell – A two-time Cy Young Award winner bolstering the rotation.
- Tanner Scott & Kirby Yates – Key relief pitchers signed in recent weeks.
Clayton Kershaw’s Surprise Appearance
Perhaps the biggest surprise of the day was Clayton Kershaw, the longtime Dodgers ace and future Hall of Famer.
Despite not yet officially signing with the team, Kershaw was seen playing catch, hinting at what is expected to be his 18th season with the Dodgers.
Shohei Ohtani Prepares for a Two-Way Comeback
All eyes were on two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani, who took the mound for the first time since undergoing elbow surgery last year.
- Ohtani did not pitch in 2024 due to recovery from a torn UCL.
- He still had a historic offensive season, becoming the first player in MLB history to record a 50-home run, 50-stolen base season, earning his third MVP award.
- Ohtani is also recovering from a labrum tear in his non-throwing shoulder, suffered while attempting a stolen base during Game 2 of the World Series.
Despite the injury, he played in every game of the five-game series, helping the Dodgers secure their championship.
Notable Absences and Departures
While most of the 2024 championship core was present, a few notable players were absent due to offseason moves:
- Walker Buehler – Signed with a new team during free agency.
- Jack Flaherty – Also departed in free agency.
Upcoming Schedule and Key Dates
- First full-team workout: Saturday, Feb. 15
- First Spring Training game: Feb. 20
- First Dodger Stadium game: March 23 vs. Angels (Freeway Series)
- Opening Day: March 27 vs. Detroit Tigers
With a stacked roster, key returning players, and new star power, the Dodgers are gearing up for another championship run in 2025.
