Dodgers manage Ohtani’s knee inflammation as Wrobleski exits with hamstring injury
Manager Dave Roberts characterises the decision to remove Shohei Ohtani as precautionary, citing the physical demands of his dual role as the team navigates the regular season with postseason readiness in mind.
Los Angeles Dodgers two-way star Shohei Ohtani exited the seventh inning of the team’s 8-6 victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates on Thursday due to left knee inflammation. Manager Dave Roberts described the move as precautionary, stating that the club’s level of concern is "not high" and that Ohtani is expected to return to the lineup on Friday against the Chicago White Sox.
Ohtani, the reigning National League MVP, had been productive prior to his departure, hitting his 13th home run of the season in the third inning. He also recorded a single and drew two walks, reaching base in all four of his plate appearances. Roberts noted that Ohtani began feeling discomfort in his leg during the contest, prompting the decision to insert pinch-hitter Santiago Espinal.
"We just wanted to be smart and not push it," Roberts said regarding the early exit. The Dodgers are mindful of the significant physical demands associated with Ohtani’s two-way role as they navigate the regular season with an eye toward postseason readiness.
The game also saw an injury to Dodgers starting pitcher Justin Wrobleski, who left in the fifth inning with a right hamstring contusion. The left-hander was struck by a line drive from Bryan Reynolds, and the ball ricocheted off Wrobleski to first baseman Freddie Freeman. Wrobleski subsequently collided with Reynolds while taking a toss from Freeman at first base.
Roberts confirmed after the game that Wrobleski is "fine." Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.
