Shohei Ohtani’s Next Act: From 50/50 Legend to 2025 Cy Young Contender
By Oddixa —
After a historic season as a pure hitter, Shohei Ohtani is preparing to return to the mound, sparking massive interest in the 2025 MLB betting markets.
The Dual-Threat Returns: Ohtani’s Mission for 2025
Last season, Shohei Ohtani did the unthinkable. While rehabbing from a major elbow surgery that kept him off the pitcher's mound, he redefined the limits of offensive production by founding the 50/50 club—blasting over 50 home runs and stealing over 50 bases. For most players, that would be a career-defining peak. For Ohtani, it was merely a placeholder while he waited to get back to his true passion: pitching.
As the Los Angeles Dodgers prepare for the upcoming campaign, the buzz around the clubhouse isn't just about Ohtani’s bat; it’s about his arm. Teammates and coaches have noted a singular focus in the Japanese superstar as he completes his throwing program. Ohtani isn't just looking to eat innings; he is on a mission to reclaim his status as an elite ace and, potentially, add a Cy Young Award to his already crowded trophy mantle.
Betting Implications: The Ohtani Prop Market Shift
For sports bettors, Ohtani’s return to two-way play creates a fascinating dilemma. In 2024, Ohtani was a straightforward bet for MVP and hitting props. In 2025, his value becomes exponentially more complex.
The Cy Young Longshot?
Early markets for the NL Cy Young will likely feature Ohtani with respectable odds, but there is value to be found if he shows velocity in Spring Training. Unlike traditional pitchers, Ohtani faces the unique challenge of managing fatigue from daily plate appearances. However, we have seen him maintain a sub-3.00 ERA while hitting 40+ homers before. If he returns to form, his current price might be the lowest it will be all year.
The MVP Race and the 'DH Penalty'
In 2024, Ohtani won the MVP as a full-time Designated Hitter, a feat rarely seen due to the lack of defensive contribution. By returning to the mound, his Wins Above Replacement (WAR) potential skyrockets. From a betting perspective, Ohtani becomes the immediate favorite for NL MVP the moment he records his first strikeout. Bettors should look at the "To Win MVP" markets early, as his odds will likely shorten quickly once he proves his elbow can handle the dual workload.
Impact on Dodgers Team Totals and World Series Odds
The Dodgers are perennial favorites, but the addition of a healthy Ohtani to the starting rotation changes the math for season-long futures.
1. Rotation Stability: The Dodgers’ primary weakness in recent years has been starting pitching depth and health. A Cy Young-caliber Ohtani provides an anchor at the top of the rotation alongside Tyler Glasnow.
2. Run Support: Because Ohtani pitches on days he hits, he effectively provides his own run support, making the Dodgers a strong play on the "Run Line" (-1.5) during his starts.
3. Strikeout Props: Keep a close eye on Ohtani’s K/9 rates in the first month. If the Dodgers limit his pitch count early on, there may be value in betting the 'Under' on his strikeout props until he is fully unleashed mid-season.
The Verdict for Bettors
Shohei Ohtani is a market mover unlike any other in sports. His quest for a Cy Young isn’t just a feel-good comeback story; it’s a shift in the entire MLB landscape. Whether you are looking at individual awards, game-by-game props, or World Series futures, everything in the National League now runs through Ohtani’s right arm.
At Oddixa, we recommend monitoring his velocity reports throughout the spring. If the sinker and the sweeper are back to their 2022 levels, the 2025 season could be the most profitable year yet for those backing the Dodgers' unicorn.