Ohtani could return to Dodgers lineup against Padres on Wednesday
Manager Dave Roberts says Shohei Ohtani could be activated as early as Wednesday, with the Dodgers planning to use him regularly as a hitter.
Shohei Ohtani could return to the Los Angeles Dodgers’ lineup as early as Wednesday against the San Diego Padres, manager Dave Roberts said.
The possible return would be Ohtani’s first game since 7 September, although activation has not been confirmed. Roberts said Ohtani is expected to play regularly once available and receive as many at-bats as possible.
Ohtani will not pitch again this season or in the playoffs, with his role focused exclusively on hitting. The Dodgers have not provided further details in the supplied material about the status of his absence.
Through 130 games, Ohtani is batting .277 with 30 home runs, 80 RBIs and a .902 on-base plus slugging percentage.
The Dodgers are 95-60 and hold a nine-game lead in the National League West as they pursue a third consecutive World Series title.
