Ohtani shifts focus to hitting as Dodgers face renewed injury questions
Shohei Ohtani’s reported role adjustment follows a series of physical setbacks and leaves his pitching availability uncertain as Los Angeles pursues a third consecutive championship.
Shohei Ohtani is focusing on hitting moving forward, according to Yahoo Sports, after a series of physical setbacks disrupted his two-way season with the Los Angeles Dodgers.
The reported adjustment raises questions about Ohtani’s availability as a pitcher, his prospects for the remainder of the season and the Dodgers’ bid for a third straight championship. It does not confirm that he has permanently stopped pitching.
Ohtani last pitched on 3 July before experiencing left knee irritation, according to the background timeline accompanying the report. He also received a lubricant injection for the knee before the All-Star break.
The change comes after Ohtani began the season attempting to resume full two-way responsibilities. His reported focus on hitting now leaves the Dodgers to manage the limits of his pitching role while maintaining their wider championship campaign.
Ohtani’s altered status adds another layer of uncertainty to a season in which the Dodgers entered with the objective of three-peating. The available material does not establish when, or whether, he will return to the mound.
