Angels pitcher Shohei Ohtani underwent surgery on his left elbow Tuesday in Los Angeles, his agent Nez Balelo announced in a statement.
Dr. Neal ElAttrache did not specify the type of procedure performed but added in his own statement that he expects the two-way star to be ready to hit on Opening Day next season and pitch again in the 2025 season.
“The ultimate plan after deliberation with Shohei [Ohtani] 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,” ElAttrache wrote in his statement. “Shohei is resting and in good spirits and excited to be on the road to recovery.”
Ohtani confirmed Tuesday’s surgery in an Instagram post, saying that the procedure went well and thanking fans for their prayers and kind words.
“It was very unfortunate that I couldn’t finish out the year on the field but I will be rooting on the boys until the end,” Ohtani wrote. “I will work as hard as I can and do my best to come back on the diamond stronger than ever.”
Ohtani has also shared his own statement via his Instagram page: https://t.co/bHZk6uWBv3 pic.twitter.com/6B4yacSSWC
— Sarah Valenzuela (@Sarah_IsabelVee) September 19, 2023
Ohtani underwent surgery at the Kerlan & Jobe Orthopedic Clinic. According to Balelo, the deciding factor and the type of procedure for Ohtani was made with “heavy emphasis on the big picture” for the Angels designated hitter and pitcher.
“Shohei wanted to make sure the direction taken gave him every opportunity to hit and pitch for many years to come,” Balelo said.
