Event

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts says Shohei Ohtani unlikely to return to rotation by next week

Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts stated that two-way star Shohei Ohtani is not expected to return to the starting rotation by next week, despite being scheduled to throw a bullpen session on Saturday at Citi Field. Ohtani has not pitched since July 3 due to left knee irritation, though he remains in the lineup as a designated hitter. Roberts emphasised that the team prioritises long-term health for the postseason over an early return, noting Ohtani is currently 8-2 with a 1.79 ERA. The Dodgers also provided updates on other injured players, including Blake Snell, Edwin Díaz, Tyler Glasnow, and Will Smith.

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Background

Why this event matters

Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has indicated that two-way star Shohei Ohtani is unlikely to return to the starting rotation by next week, despite being scheduled to throw a bullpen session on Saturday at Citi Field against the New York Mets. Ohtani has not pitched since July 3 due to left knee irritation, although he remains in the lineup as a designated hitter. Roberts emphasised that the team is prioritising Ohtani’s long-term health for the postseason over an early return, noting his strong performance with an 8-2 record and a 1.79 ERA. The Dodgers also provided updates on several other injured players: Blake Snell is undergoing a rehab start, Edwin Díaz is progressing towards a return, Tyler Glasnow is throwing to hitters, and catcher Will Smith is pain-free and increasing activity.

event-brief

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts says Shohei Ohtani unlikely to return to rotation by next week

Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has indicated that two-way star Shohei Ohtani is unlikely to return to the starting rotation by next week, despite being scheduled to throw a bullpen session on Saturday at Citi Field against the New York Mets. Ohtani has not pitched since

Reporting trail
Yahoo Sports | https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/mlb/dodgers/2026/07/25/shohei-ohtani-pitching-update-dave-roberts-comments/91046400007 | published 2026-07-25T05:23:15.000Z | primary sourceYahoo Sports / USA TODAY | Primary source for Dave Roberts' comments on Ohtani's injury status and timeline.Yahoo Sports | https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/ohtani-could-throw-another-bullpen-001453177.html | published 2026-07-25T00:14:53.000Z | primary source

Fact cards

entity brief

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts says Shohei Ohtani unlikely to return to rotation by next week: key people and institutions

Key entities: Shohei Ohtani, Los Angeles Dodgers, Dave Roberts, New York Mets, Citi Field, Blake Snell, Edwin Díaz, Tyler Glasnow.

source brief

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts says Shohei Ohtani unlikely to return to rotation by next week: reporting sources

Yahoo Sports / USA TODAY | Primary source for Dave Roberts' comments on Ohtani's injury status and timeline.

timeline brief

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts says Shohei Ohtani unlikely to return to rotation by next week: timeline

May 8: Tyler Glasnow placed on the 60-day injured list due to low back spasms. May 9: Blake Snell makes his season debut before being sidelined by loose bodies in his left elbow. July 3: Shohei Ohtani last pitched before experiencing left knee irritation. Pre-All-Star Break: Ohta

Timeline

May 8

Tyler Glasnow placed on the 60-day injured list due to low back spasms.

May 9

Blake Snell makes his season debut before being sidelined by loose bodies in his left elbow.

July 3

Shohei Ohtani last pitched before experiencing left knee irritation.

Pre-All-Star Break

Ohtani receives a lubricant injection for his knee.

Friday (upcoming)

Blake Snell scheduled for a second rehab start for Triple-A Oklahoma City.

Saturday (upcoming)

Ohtani scheduled to throw a bullpen session at Citi Field.

Sunday (upcoming)

Edwin Díaz scheduled to pitch for the Comets.

Tuesday (upcoming)

Dodgers return home; Díaz expected to rejoin the team if progress continues.

FAQ

Why is Shohei Ohtani not pitching next week?

Manager Dave Roberts is prioritising Ohtani’s long-term health for the October postseason rather than rushing his return in July.

What medical treatment did Ohtani receive?

He underwent a lubricant injection into his left knee for relief; the fluid was not drained.

When did Ohtani last pitch?

He has not pitched since 3 July.

Will Ohtani throw a full workload upon his return?

No, Roberts indicated that Ohtani is not expected to throw 100 pitches when he returns.

What is the next step in Ohtani’s recovery?

He is scheduled to throw a bullpen session on 25 July in New York.