Dodgers prioritise postseason health over Ohtani’s immediate return
Los Angeles maintain their position atop the majors as they manage injury protocols for Shohei Ohtani and key rotation members ahead of the October campaign.
Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has confirmed that Shohei Ohtani is not expected to return to the starting rotation by next week, despite the two-way star being scheduled to throw a bullpen session on Saturday at Citi Field. Roberts emphasised that the club is prioritising long-term health for the postseason over an early return, noting that Ohtani has not pitched since July 3 due to left knee irritation.
The Dodgers, who hold the best record in the majors at 65-38 and an 11-game lead in the NL West, are taking a fluid approach to Ohtani’s recovery. Roberts stated that the team received a lubricant injection for Ohtani just before the All-Star break and is monitoring his progress daily. “Honestly, I think it's just to be fluid with Shohei,” Roberts said. “If tomorrow feels good to throw the pen, great. And if it doesn’t, then we'll kick it. We're not going to push him.”
Ohtani remains in the lineup as a designated hitter, batting in his usual leadoff spot. While he has not pitched since July 3, his offensive production remains elite, with a .283 batting average, 22 home runs, 60 RBIs, and a .917 OPS. As a pitcher this season, he holds an 8-2 record with a 1.79 ERA and 95 strikeouts in 85 2/3 innings across 14 starts, having won his past six decisions.
The club also provided updates on several other injured players. Blake Snell, sidelined since May 9 due to loose bodies in his left elbow, is scheduled to make a second rehab start on Friday night for Triple-A Oklahoma City. Roberts indicated that Snell needs to get through three innings to meet specific markers, having thrown 32 pitches in 1 1/3 innings during his previous appearance.
Edwin Díaz, who underwent right elbow surgery, is progressing toward a return after making back-to-back rehab appearances. He is scheduled to pitch again on Sunday for the Comets and is expected to rejoin the Dodgers when they return home on Tuesday, assuming all goes well. Meanwhile, Tyler Glasnow is throwing to hitters and trending in the right direction, and catcher Will Smith is pain-free and beginning more activity.
