Dodgers weigh Ohtani’s return to rotation as MVP race tightens
Shohei Ohtani is set to throw a bullpen session against the Atlanta Braves, with manager Dave Roberts indicating a decision on his next step will follow immediately.
Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts has signalled that the club will make a definitive decision on Shohei Ohtani’s pitching return following a scheduled bullpen session during the upcoming series against the Atlanta Braves. The two-way star, who has not taken the mound since July 3 due to persistent knee inflammation and a biceps issue, will continue to bat as the team’s designated hitter while the organisation assesses his readiness.
Roberts indicated that the outcome of the bullpen session will determine whether Ohtani proceeds to face hitters or moves directly to game action. If the session goes to plan, Ohtani’s return to the rotation could occur as soon as next week. The Dodgers are currently holding a healthy lead in the National League West with a record of 79-51, but they are aiming to secure the best overall record to guarantee home-field advantage throughout the playoffs.
For the postseason, the club plans a more aggressive buildup for Ohtani than in the previous year. Roberts suggested that Ohtani’s role could theoretically resemble that of a regular starting pitcher rather than an opener, a shift that would be significant given his earlier status as a Cy Young candidate before his knee condition intervened.
Offensively, Ohtani remains a dominant force, boasting a National League-leading OPS+ of 159. His performance has kept him in contention for a fourth consecutive MVP award, although he currently trails Pete Crow-Armstrong in the race. According to CBS Sports, Ohtani has a WAR of 7.9, compared to Crow-Armstrong’s 6.9.
Crow-Armstrong’s combination of power, speed, and defensive excellence has made him the betting favourite, with FanDuel listing him at -170 odds. However, a strong finish from Ohtani on the mound could tilt the balance back in his favour as September approaches.
The Dodgers’ strategic focus remains on winning the World Series for a third straight season, but restoring Ohtani to full two-way duty is viewed as a critical component in that effort. The organisation will monitor his progress closely following the session in Atlanta to ensure long-term health is prioritised.
