Los Angeles Dodgers’ Shohei Ohtani exits with left knee inflammation
Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani was withdrawn in the seventh inning of Thursday’s game against the Pittsburgh Pirates due to left knee inflammation.
The reigning National League MVP was replaced by a pinch hitter late in the contest, prematurely ending an otherwise flawless performance at the plate.
Before his early exit, the Japanese superstar had safely reached base in all four of his at-bats.
Impressive start curtailed
The two-way phenom had already launched his 13th home run of the season with a solo shot during the third inning.
He supplemented that power display with a single and two walks, underlining his vital importance to the Los Angeles lineup.
It remains unclear exactly when the 30-year-old first began experiencing discomfort in his joint.
Further injury woes for Dodgers
The evening proved costly for the visiting side, who also lost starting pitcher Justin Wrobleski to a fitness issue.
The American left-hander was forced off the mound in the fifth inning after suffering a right hamstring contusion.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts will now be sweating on the fitness of both players as the franchise navigates a grueling Major League Baseball regular-season schedule.