Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani was held out of Thursday's series finale against the Seattle Mariners at Dodger Stadium because of persistent soreness in his left knee.
The designated hitter reported renewed discomfort after Wednesday's 4-2 win over Seattle.
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Although Ohtani wanted to play, team medical staff and management decided to give him a day off to avoid further strain.
Manager Dave Roberts stressed the importance of communication with players about physical issues during a long season.
"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," Roberts said.
Roberts noted that the training staff relies heavily on player feedback when monitoring lingering injuries.
"I appreciate the communication.
I can't read minds, the training staff can't read minds, so just for him to communicate that then allows for us to make a decision," he added.
Ohtani has dealt with left knee inflammation since June 11 and has not pitched since July 3.
His pitching progression was also delayed by recent right biceps discomfort, and he skipped the All-Star Game in Philadelphia to receive a lubricating Orthovisc injection.
Despite his absence from the mound, where he has a 1.79 ERA and 95 strikeouts over 85 2/3 innings, Ohtani has remained productive at the plate.
In 36 games since the knee injury, he has hit . 263 with 10 home runs and 25 RBIs.
