It wasn't a perfect return to the mound for Shohei Ohtani, but the Dodgers feel good about what it meant for the two-way star.

The day that the Dodgers have been waiting for since they signed Shohei Ohtani to a then-record contract is nearly here: Ohtani's first start as a pitcher in a Dodgers uniform is set for Monday night against the Padres.

Shoehi Ohtani’s debut wasn’t perfect, but it also could have gone a lot worse. After not pitching in nearly two years, the Japanese right-hander clearly showed signs of rust and lack of command in his first big league action of the season.

There's no reason for Dodgers fans to fret. Ohtani was always expected to throw just an inning or two tonight as he slowly finds his rhythm again on the bump. Usually, when pitchers return from injuries, they throw a few rehab starts in the minor leagues. Of course, that's not possible for Ohtani, who is the best offensive player on his team, too.

Shohei Ohtani sends bold message in his Los Angeles Dodgers pitching debut, hitting 100.2 mph and driving in 2 runs in win over Padres.

The former Japanese interpreter for baseball star Shohei Ohtani has surrendered to a federal prison in Pennsylvania, beginning a nearly five-year prison sentence for bank and tax fraud after he stole nearly $17 million from the Los Angeles Dodgers player.

Aaron Judge and Shohei Ohtani lead the American League and the National League, respectively, with the most All-Star votes so far.

Even as the Dodgers are getting back Shohei Ohtani on the mound,  the banged-up Los Angeles pitching staff suffered another blow. The Dodgers announced Ohtani will start on Monday night against the Padres,