Ohtani returns to Dodgers lineup after four-game absence

Shohei Ohtani returned to the Los Angeles Dodgers’ starting lineup against the Cincinnati Reds on Monday after missing four consecutive games while recovering from left biceps, right knee and neck issues.

The absence was Ohtani’s longest consecutive spell out during his two seasons with the Dodgers. He had been available to pinch-hit in Sunday’s 7–5 win over the Washington Nationals but did not bat.

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts had expected Ohtani to return to the lineup. The team did not place him on the injured list, partly because his status as a two-way player would have required a 15-day minimum for a pitching stint, compared with 10 days for a position player.

Ohtani has not pitched since 3 July, after making 14 starts with a 1.79 ERA, an 8–2 record and 95 strikeouts in 85⅔ innings. His return to batting duties comes as the Dodgers manage a gradual recovery from his injury issues.

His pitching outlook for the remainder of 2026 remains unresolved, but appears increasingly unlikely. Roberts said the Dodgers had not made that decision with certainty, while noting that the calendar and Ohtani’s recent throwing schedule made a return difficult.