Alex Rodriguez shares honest take on Shohei Ohtani returning to the mound

Shohei Ohtani had a historic last season when he registered 50-50 campaign during his first year with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Due to his heroics, he was able to secure his third MVP title of his illustrious career.

What did Alex Rodriguez say about Shohei Ohtani?

Following a historic season, there has been speculations around Shohei Ohtani's much anticipated return to the mound. While Ohtani has been in terrific when it comes to his hitting form, his pitching return is something which is doesn't come with a date.

New York Yankees legend Alex Rodriguez shared his honest thought about Shohei Ohtani making a return to the mound for the first time in his Dodgers career. During his conversation with former teammate Derek Jeter and Red Sox icon David Ortiz, Rodriguez said,

His talent's off the charts, but if Ohtani gets hurt and makes it 15 pitchers on the IL, the season's over. So, for me, the risk and reward are not there.

The former MVP also pointed out Ohtani's two Tommy John surgeries as a potential reason to not let the Japanese pitch this season.

He's not a finesse pitcher. He's a power pitcher, fastball, tight slider split. He's already had two Tommy John surgeries. He had a separate shoulder injury in the World Series. I wouldn't let that lie. I would have a whole offseason and spring training to set him up physically, emotionally and mentally.

Shohei Ohtani's road to pitching return

There is still no certain date on Shohei Ohtani' return to the mound, the reigning NL MVP is getting closer to making his first start for the NL West team.

Shohei Ohtani faced live hitters before facing the New York Yankees on Saturday. It was the second time that Ohtani faired against live hitters as he faced 22 pitches last weekend.

The three-time MVP threw to seven batters from Sinle-A Rancho Cucamonga, and manager Dave Roberts was happy with his progress in the simulated settings.

He’s just using his entire arsenal, also with today doing the up-down, he’s certainly well beyond where he was in spring (training), Roberts said.

While the return of Shohei Ohtani on the mound has Alex Rodriguez concerned, the Japanese hasn't had a slump in his hitting form as he is registering another MVP like season for the NL West team.