Ohtani Back in Dodgers Lineup as Designated Hitter; Pitching Return Uncertain
Shohei Ohtani returned to the Los Angeles Dodgers' lineup as the designated hitter after a four-day absence due to soreness in his knee, biceps, and neck. Manager Dave Roberts said the team has paused Ohtani's throwing program but has not ruled out him pitching again this season. The Dodgers went 4-0 during his absence.
During Ohtani's four-game hiatus, the Dodgers swept the Nationals and won all four contests. Utility player Tommy Edman filled the leadoff role, posting a .412 average with a home run and four RBIs. Ohtani's own offensive production has dipped since the All-Star break, where he holds a .250 average across 41 games.
Ohtani's last mound appearance came on July 3, and his final bullpen session occurred on August 28. Manager Dave Roberts emphasized that keeping Ohtani in the leadoff spot stems from his belief that the best hitter deserves the most flexibility, though he remains uncertain if that arrangement will persist through the season's end.
The Dodgers' cautious handling of Ohtani's ailments could significantly shape their postseason rotation, as his potential absence from the mound may force the team to rely on other starters. For fans and the broader baseball community, the lingering uncertainty over his two-way future may influence how his historic career is evaluated, particularly if his pitching return remains indefinitely postponed.