Los Angeles Dodgers will not rush Shohei Ohtani’s return to mound
Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has confirmed that two-way star Shohei Ohtani will not return to the pitching rotation next week as he recovers from left knee irritation.
The Japanese sensation has not pitched since 3 July after requiring a lubricant injection in the joint just before the All-Star break.
However, the injury has not affected his hitting, allowing him to remain a regular fixture in the starting lineup as a designated hitter.
October ambitions prioritised
Ohtani is tentatively scheduled to throw another bullpen session at Citi Field on Saturday prior to the series against the New York Mets.
Despite this scheduled progress, the franchise is adopting a highly cautious approach with their prized asset.
“Every player wants to get back out there and do what they do. But I think he understands it’s not about July, it’s about October.”
Roberts added that the team has already invested significant time in his recovery and will remain “nimble” rather than pushing him prematurely.
The four-time Most Valuable Player currently boasts an impressive 8-2 pitching record this season alongside a stellar 1.79 earned run average.
At the plate, the prolific slugger continues to dominate, batting .283 with 22 home runs and 60 RBIs for the National League West leaders.
Dodgers injury updates
Alongside Ohtani, several other key pitchers are working their way back to full fitness for the defending World Series champions.
Two-time Cy Young Award winner Blake Snell is scheduled for a second rehab start with Triple-A affiliate Oklahoma City.
The veteran left-hander has been sidelined since May following the discovery of loose bodies in his elbow.
Meanwhile, star closer Edwin Díaz is expected to rejoin the major league squad on Tuesday following successful back-to-back rehab appearances.
Tyler Glasnow is also trending positively after throwing to hitters in his ongoing recovery from lower back spasms.