The Los Angeles Dodgers expect Shohei Ohtani to pitch again this season.
However, they are proceeding cautiously due to concerns over his left knee healing and recent right biceps soreness, as reported by the team in late July 2026.
Ohtani has not pitched since July 3 because of inflammation in his left knee. Despite this, he has continued to serve as the designated hitter in games.
The Dodgers hope to avoid rushing his return to pitching to prevent overcompensation injuries.
General manager Andrew Friedman downplayed the significance of Ohtani's right biceps soreness, indicating it was not a major setback.
Manager's cautious approach
Manager Dave Roberts explained that Ohtani was not started in the third game of a series against the Seattle Mariners due to renewed soreness in his knee.
The decision to rest him was made after the player himself reported discomfort.
Roberts said, "I appreciate him saying that there's some soreness to then allow me to make a decision for what is in his best interest, and that's what we're doing."
While Ohtani wanted to play through the soreness, the team prioritized caution to ensure his long-term health.
Roberts added, "After tonight's day off, he could come back and feel refreshed and play the next, call it four or five, before the next off-day, or feel after three games that [he's] a little sore again and need a blow."
During Ohtani's absence, Teoscar Hernandez filled the designated hitter role, and Tommy Edman took the lead-off spot.
During the All-Star break, Ohtani received a lubricating Orthovisc injection to help his recovery.
As of late July, the Dodgers expected him to resume throwing and playing catch by the weekend or early the following week.
Before his injury, Ohtani had an outstanding pitching record with a 1.79 ERA, 0.95 WHIP, and 95 strikeouts over 85.2 innings in 14 starts.
He was a leading candidate for the National League Cy Young Award. However, his pitching absence has diminished his chances for the award.
The Dodgers will rely on Ohtani's pitching performance in October as they aim for a third consecutive championship.
