Expectations regarding Shohei Ohtani's return to the mound have shifted significantly for the Los Angeles Dodgers. Manager Dave Roberts initially suggested that Ohtani might be back in the rotation by May, but recent updates reveal that the timeline is now uncertain. Ohtani has focused on hitting during spring training, participating actively as a designated hitter while postponing bullpen sessions. This decision aims to manage the former MVP's recovery from Tommy John surgery and shoulder repair.

Ohtani demonstrated strong offensive skills, hitting a home run in his first at-bat of the spring and consistently contributing at the plate. However, as he prepares for the season opener in Japan, the clarity of his return to pitching remains ambiguous. The Dodgers are prioritizing his long-term health over immediate contributions on the mound.

Shohei Ohtani continues to impress baseball fans, drawing praise from Barry Bonds, the MLB's all-time home run king. Bonds acknowledged Ohtani as a remarkable talent, capable in pitching, hitting, and baserunning, labeling him as the complete player. However, he added that modern players face a different game than those in his era, where intimidation tactics like pitchers plunking hitters were commonplace. Bonds asserted that Ohtani wouldn't have been able to hit multiple home runs without facing such intimidation.

Bonds also pointed out the lack of repercussions for showing off after home runs in the current game, contrasting it with his own experiences where such actions could lead to serious retaliation. He believes current hitters have more opportunities to practice and refine their skills due to increased training regimens. Despite Ohtani's phenomenal abilities, Bonds remains protective over his home run record, noting Ohtani still has a considerable way to go before surpassing 762 home runs.

Jack Dreyer, a promising left-handed reliever for the Dodgers, has gained attention not just for his pitching but also for his impressive Rubik's Cube skills. After the Dodgers signed Shohei Ohtani to a record $700 million contract, Dreyer decided to create a unique tribute—a portrait of Ohtani made from hundreds of Rubik's Cubes. Although the artwork was eventually destroyed, Dreyer's talent for solving these puzzles has become a lighthearted focal point in Dodgers camp this spring. Dreyer is now near Ohtani in the clubhouse, where his cube-solving skills have sparked interest among teammates and coaches, including manager Dave Roberts.

Dreyer's journey to the majors has been marked by development and improvement. After struggling with walks early in his career, he made a significant mentality shift that helped him maintain a 2.20 ERA while dramatically reducing his walks last season. This success landed him on the Dodgers' 40-man roster. Currently, he is making a strong impression in spring training with notable strikeout performances, positioning himself as a potential call-up as the season progresses.