Dodgers manage Ohtani workload cautiously as knee recovery progresses

Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has characterised Shohei Ohtani’s recent bullpen session as a “big sign” of progress toward rejoining the pitching rotation. The session, conducted on Wednesday 22 July, serves as a critical indicator of the superstar’s physical readiness, with Roberts noting that while Ohtani’s arm strength remains intact, the primary challenge lies in his ability to execute the mechanics of throwing downhill.

Ohtani was sidelined from a scheduled start prior to the MLB All-Star break due to inflammation and irritation in his left knee. The injury disrupted his pitching mechanics and led to his withdrawal from the All-Star Game, where he had been the league’s leading vote-getter. Roberts explained that the transition to descending the mound slope remains the definitive test for the player’s recovery.

Medical interventions have included a lubricant injection administered to the knee, which Roberts confirmed last week was not drained. The treatment is intended to provide relief, allowing Ohtani to continue his duties as designated hitter. During Wednesday’s 9-5 victory over the Philadelphia Phillies, Ohtani went 0-for-4 at the plate with one walk, demonstrating his continued offensive availability while the pitching side recovers.

Looking ahead to the second half of the season, the Dodgers are adopting a cautious strategy regarding Ohtani’s workload. Roberts stated it is unlikely the pitcher will throw 100 pitches in his first outing back. The organisation is expected to manage his innings carefully as he prepares for a three-game series against the New York Mets beginning on Friday 24 July.

The team’s schedule includes a visit to the White House on Thursday 23 July before the series opener. While the exact timeline for Ohtani’s return to the mound remains undefined, the completion of the bullpen session indicates a structured progression in his rehabilitation process.